Method and Apparatus for the Management of a Soil Pest or Pathogen

ABSTRACT

A method for the management of a soil pest or pathogen is disclosed and which includes a source of high voltage electricity; at least one capacitor for storing the high voltage electricity; a multiplicity of electrodes inserted into a soil location having a soil pest and/or pathogen to be managed; and an electrical switch which is controllably opened and closes so as to form a pulse of electricity which is passed through the soil location and between the electrodes so as to effect the management of the soil pest and/or pathogen

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for themanagement of a soil pest or pathogen, and more specifically to amethodology and apparatus which delivers a predetermined amount ofelectrical current to a soil treatment area, and which is effective inreducing the deleterious effects of soil pests such as nematodes, andpathogens such as various fungi, and similar organisms on plants whichare planted, and growing in the same treatment area.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Members of the phylum nematoda [round worms] have been in existence foran estimated one billion years. This makes them one of the most ancientand diverse types of animals now available for study on the earth. Theseorganisms are thought to have evolved from simple animals. Two nematodeclasses—the Chromadorida and Enoplea diverged so long ago that it isdifficult to know the exact age of the two lineages of the phylum. Inour previously filed U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/462,733, andwhich was filed on Aug. 19, 2014 we disclosed and claimed a methodologyand apparatus which was shown to be particularly effective incontrolling various nematodes. The present application claims priorityto this earlier filed application, and the teachings of that earlierfiled application is incorporated by reference herein.

A fungus is a member of a large group of eukaryotic organisms thatincludes microorganisms such as molds, yeasts and a more familiar group,the mushrooms. As should be understood, a fungus digests food externallyand absorbs nutrients directly through the fungi's cell walls. Mostfungi reproduce by spores, and have a body composed, at least in part,of microscopic tubular cells called hyphae. Fungi are consideredHeterotrophs, and like animals, fungi obtain their carbon and energyfrom other organisms. They are classified as their own Kingdom, Fungi,which is separate from that of plants, animals and bacteria. One majordifference between fungi and plants is that fungi have the compoundchitin in their cell wall, while, on the contrary, plants havecellulose. Although often inconspicuous, fungi varieties are found inevery ecosystem. and play important roles in most ecosystems.

Along with fungi, other organisms cause plant diseases includingbacteria, viruses, nematodes and insects. However, fungi, by far, causethe most severe crop losses in the world. For example the results for asurvey made by the state of Ohio reported that this one US state had onethousand plant diseases caused by fungi; one hundred plant diseasescaused by viruses; and fifty plant diseases caused by bacteria. Amongthe best known fungal plant pathogens, Phytophthora infestans, whichcauses Potato Late Blight, resulted in the failure of potato cropsacross all of Europe, and the Irish famine of 1845-46. It is almostimpossible to imagine that this one fungal crop disease changed thestructure of an entire nation by causing the deaths of one in eight ofthe Irish Republic's population.

The majority of phytopathogenic fungi belong to the classes Ascomycetesand Basidiomycetes. Late blight of potatoes and downy mildew of grapesare diseases caused by the most ancient of fungal-like organisms,belonging to Ascomycetes, while rusts and smuts, are diseases caused bymembers of the group of fungi which is the most advanced in evolutionaryterms, the Basidiomycetes. Diseases such as chestnut blight; peach leafcurl; Dutch elm disease; net blotch of barley; beet leaf spot; appleblotch; maple leaf spot; and many others are caused by fungi which areclassified between these two aforementioned groups. Some members of thegroup or class, Ascomycetes, are very serious plant and animalpathogens, which cause significant plant diseases. One of the moreserious plant pathogens is the ergot fungus, Claviceps purpurea whichcolonizes the ovaries of grains, such as rye. This aforementioned fungusproduces a mass of mycelium, called a sclerotium, which is hard, and hasa density similar to a seed. A sclerotia contains alkaloids and othersecondary metabolites. Another group of fungal plant pathogens are thepowdery mildews, which produce a powdery spore mass on the outer surfaceof plant leaves. If a leaf is infected before it has expanded, it willremain small and may drop from the plant. Powdery mildew can occur onmost plant species, and can be very damaging to crop and ornamentalplants. Members of group or class Basidiomycetes, also include Pucciniaspp. that causes rusts in almost all cereal grains, and cultivatedgrasses; and Phakospora pachyrhizi that causes soybean rust.

The use of resistant plant cultivars, and the eradication of fungithrough the use of assorted cultural practices are some of the morewell-known approaches which have been employed to address the diseasescaused by various fungal pathogens. However, in many situation thesewell-known measures cannot be employed. Those skilled in the art willrecognize that some form of fungicide application is often essential,and critical to the survival of specific crops. For example, and in mostsituations, fungicides are more effective when applied prior to theonset of disease symptoms. However, a small number of well-knownfungicides can be effective when applied after the onset of symptoms.

There are many different types and chemical classes of fungicidescurrently available. The current literature reports that fumigants,sometimes in conjunction with other chemical mitigants, have been thetraditional means for controlling fungal plant pathogens and other plantpathogens and pests. Currently, fumigants are still used to controlfungal pathogens in many countries, including the United States.Fungicides, including fumigants, can be used as pre-plant soiltreatments; drenches; seed treatments; in-season applications; and/or oras postharvest treatments for fruits and vegetables.

However, the high cost of the available fumigants has restricted theiruse to high value crops in countries where these admittedly toxicproducts can be applied safely and effectively. Many countries have, asof late, severely restricted the use of fumigants, or completely bannedthem altogether. One of the most effective fumigants is Methyl Bromide.Many farmers have recognized this soil fumigant is just short of amiracle for the management of soil plant pathogens and pests. MethylBromide has been shown, in a single treatment before planting, tocontrol fungal pathogens, nematodes, weeds and other plant pathogens.However, Methyl Bromide is also recognized as a health and environmentalhazard, and is being phased out under an international ban. Otherfumigants are under testing by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, andother agencies. However, the recent literature does not show any ofthese fumigants have reached the level of efficacy that Methyl Bromidehas. Investigators attempting to control soil plant pathogens and pests,have sought other methods beyond that of fumigation. Fungicides can beapplied via subsurface drip chemi-gation to control a range of fungalpathogens with a soil phase, including Phytophthora capsici infectionson vegetables with good results. Although fungicides provide good cropprotection, their repeated use is known to result in fungal pathogenresistance. Moreover, the resulting fungal resistance is sometimes,widespread, that is, the resulting resistance developed by the fungussubsequently affects the performance of many other fungicides, includingnew ones which are introduced. In view of these observed challenges, along-felt need exists for other commercially viable, and environmentallyfriendly strategies which can be employed for the management of a soilpest and/or plant pathogens, and which can be utilized on variousagricultural crops.

The Office's attention is directed to U.S. Pat. No. 1,737,866, whichappears to be one of the earliest known patents, and which describes amethod and apparatus for the practice of agriculture. This patentdiscloses the use of a plow device, and wherein the plow includes harrowdiscs or other oppositely charged implements, which act as electrodes,and wherein a source of electricity is passed into the plow-shares orharrow discs. The electrically energized harrow discs are reported, inthis reference, to be effective in destroying germinating seeds, andinhibit the activity of insects, worms, larvae and eggs that are in thesoil, thus practically exterminating them. The Office's attention isalso directed to U.S. Pat. No. 2,750,712, to Rainey, and which relatesto another apparatus and methodology for applying electrical current toa soil treatment area, and which is intended to destroy undesired weeds,grass and insect life by the application of electrical current to theinsects, and undesired plants during cultivation. Still another attemptto apply electrical current to a cultivated area is seen in U.S. PatentPublication No. 2003/0150156 A1 to Flagler, et al. Again, thisparticular reference discloses a method and apparatus for eradicatingnematodes, and other soil borne organisms, to a depth of up to severalfeet. This published U.S. patent application discloses the use ofspecially-shaped, electrically conductive metal shanks that are pulledthrough the soil profile by a tractor, or other suitable vehicle.Examples, of other prior art references which disclose the applicationof electrical current to a soil treatment area for the control of weeds,insects, nematodes, and the like, are also seen in U.S. Pat. Nos.2,429,412; 2,588,561; 4,758,318; and 6,237,278 to name but a few.

A method and apparatus for the management of a soil pest or pathogen isthe subject matter of the present application.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A first aspect of the present invention relates to a method for themanagement of a soil pest or pathogen which includes providing a sourceof high voltage electricity having a predetermined capacitance;electrically coupling the source of high voltage electricity having thepredetermined capacitance with a soil location having a soil pest orpathogen which requires management; and supplying the source of highvoltage electricity having the predetermined capacitance to the soil ina predetermined number of pulses to effect an in-situ management of thesoil pest or pathogen at the soil location.

Still another aspect of the present invention relates to a method forthe management of a soil pest or pathogen such as a fungi, whichincludes providing a source of high voltage electricity; providing aplurality of spaced electrodes each having a given length dimension, andwhich are oriented in a predetermined, spaced relationship, one relativeto the other, and orienting the spaced electrodes in electricaldischarging relation relative to a soil location having a soil pest or apathogen to be managed; providing a capacitor and which is electricallycoupled with the source of the high voltage electricity, and storing thesource of the high voltage electricity in the capacitor so as to form asource of high voltage electricity having a predetermined capacitance;providing a high voltage solid state electrical switch which iselectrically coupled with the source of high voltage electricity havingthe predetermined capacitance, and which is stored in the capacitor, andwherein the high voltage solid state electrical switch is furtherelectrically coupled with each of the spaced electrodes, and wherein thehigh voltage solid state electrical switch can be rendered electricallyopen so as to facilitate a storage of the source of high voltageelectricity in the capacitor, and electrically closed so as tofacilitate an electrical discharge of the capacitor and the subsequentdelivery of the source of the high voltage electricity having thepredetermined capacitance to the respective plurality of spacedelectrodes; providing an electrical switch driver which is electricallycoupled with the high voltage solid state electrical switch, and whereinthe high voltage solid state electrical switch, when actuated, iseffective in causing the high voltage solid state electrical switch tobe rendered either electrically open, or electrically closed; providingan isolation transformer which is electrically coupled with both thesource of the high voltage electricity having the predeterminedcapacitance, and with the plurality of spaced electrodes which areoriented in electrical discharging relation relative to the soillocation, and operating the isolation transformer in a manner so as toeffect a transmission of the high voltage electricity having thepredetermined capacitance through the soil location, and between theadjacent spaced electrodes, and to impede the dissipation of the highvoltage electricity having the predetermined capacitance into the soilat the soil location; providing a controller which is coupled incontrolling relation relative to the electrical switch driver, and whichis effective in rendering the high voltage solid state electrical switchelectrically opened and closed; and repeatedly rendering the electricalswitch driver operable to facilitate an electrical opening and closingof the high voltage solid state electrical switch and so forming amultiplicity of pulses of electricity which are delivered to theplurality of electrodes, and which are oriented in electricaldischarging relation relative to the soil location, and wherein theplurality of electrical pulses facilitate a reduction in an adversepathogenesis or effect at the soil location which is greater than about5%.

These and other aspects of the present invention will be discussed ingreater detail, hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Preferred embodiments of the invention are described below withreference to the following accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a greatly simplified, perspective, side elevation view of thepresent invention, and which is shown in a typical operationalarrangement, and while treating an underlying soil region.

FIG. 2 is a highly simplified, electrical schematic showing one form ofan overall operational, electrical arrangement for implementing themethodology of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a second, highly simplified, electrical schematic forimplementing the teachings of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a perspective, side elevation view of a greatly simplifiedapparatus, which implements the methodology for the management of a soilpest of pathogen of the present invention.

FIG. 4A is a greatly magnified view of a portion of a soil location tobe treated, and which depicts one type of a soil pest or pathogen to bemanaged by the disclosed methodology.

FIG. 5 is a fragmentary, top plan view of one possible physicalarrangement of several electrical components, which implement themethodology of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a fragmentary, perspective, exploded, side elevation view ofseveral electronic components, which implement the methodology of thepresent invention.

FIG. 7 is a fragmentary, bottom, plan view of a non-conductivesupporting surface, and which shows a multiplicity of spaced electrodes,which further are positioned in a given array, and are utilized in thepresent invention.

FIG. 8 is a plan view of a moveable platform, and which is employed inthe methodology of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a greatly simplified view of an earth traversing vehicle orcarriage, with some surfaces removed, and which is employed in themethodology of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a perspective, partially exploded, side elevation view of anearth traversing vehicle carrying a movable platform, and which forms afeature of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a fragmentary, perspective, side elevation view of a movableplatform which forms a feature of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a fragmentary, perspective, side elevation view of an earthtraversing vehicle carrying a movable platform in a first position, andwhich forms a feature of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a fragmentary perspective, side elevation view of an earthtraversing vehicle in a second position, and which forms a feature ofthe present invention, and which is further shown in a position where ithas been advanced along a course of travel, over a soil treatment area.

FIG. 14 is a fragmentary, perspective, side elevation view showing anearth traversing vehicle in a third position, and which forms a featureof the present invention, and which is further shown in a locationfurther advanced along the course of travel from that seen in FIG. 11.

FIG. 15 is a fragmentary, perspective, side elevation view of an earthtraversing vehicle in a fourth position, and which forms a feature ofthe present invention, and which is further shown in yet still another,further advanced position from that seen in FIG. 14.

FIG. 16 is a fragmentary, perspective, side elevation view of an earthtraversing vehicle in a fifth position, and which forms a feature of thepresent invention, and which is further shown in still another, advancedposition relative to that seen in FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 is still another, fragmentary, perspective, side elevation viewof the present invention, and which shows an earth traversing vehicle instill another position which is advanced along the course of travel.

FIG. 18 is a fragmentary, perspective, side elevation view of thepresent invention, and which shows the earth traversing vehicle, whichforms a feature of the present invention, located in yet anotherposition along the course of travel, and after having treated a givensoil area.

FIG. 19 is a graphical depiction showing the effect of various energytreatments on a first type of fungal soil pathogen

FIG. 20 is a graphical depiction showing the effect of various energytreatments on a second type of fungal soil pathogen

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

This disclosure of the invention is submitted in furtherance of theconstitutional purposes of the U.S. Patent laws “to promote the progressof science in useful art” [Article I, Section 8].

The method and apparatus for the management of a soil pest and/orpathogen of the present invention is best seen by reference to FIG. 1,and following. The method and apparatus, which will generally beindicated by the numeral 10, is useful for treating a given soillocation, and which is generally indicated by the numeral 11, in FIG. 1,and following. The soil location 11 includes a soil pest or pathogen tobe managed, and which is generally indicated by the numeral 12 in FIG.4A. The soil pest or pathogen, as depicted, is shown as worms, ornematodes, which are only fancifully depicted in that view, but thesesame soil pests may further include other organisms such as fungi;earthworms; wax worms; and crickets, and which are harmful to plantsgrowing in the soil location 11 to be treated. The soil pathogens whichmay be harmful to plants may include a variety of different fungalpathogens chosen from the phytopathogenic fungi groups or classes ofAscomycetes and Basidiomycetes. The method of the present invention 10includes a first step of providing a source of high voltage electricityhaving a predetermined capacitance 13 (FIGS. 2 and 3). In themethodology and apparatus 10, as described, hereinafter, the first stepincludes the provision of a three-phase, 208 volt AC generator 290,which may be mounted in one possible form of the invention at a fixedlocation; or in another possible embodiment the generator may be mountedfor movement across the soil location 11 (FIG. 1), in order to supplythe source of electricity 13 to an accompanying treatment apparatus,which will be described below. The source of high voltage electricity 13includes a phase A, B and C, indicated by the numerals 14, 15 and 16,respectively. The source of the high voltage electricity furtherincludes a neutral terminal 17, and an accompanying electrical ground18. This step of providing the high voltage electricity 13, having apredetermined capacitance comprises generating a source of high voltageDC electricity, having a voltage in a range of about 1 kV to about 100kV; an amperage of about 5 amps to about 50 kA; a frequency of about 1Hz to about 1000Hz; and a capacitance of about 1 uF to about 1,000 uF.With regard to the method as described above, the soil location 11, hasa soil electrical conductivity, which lies in a range of about 100 toabout 2,500 Micro Siemens per cubic centimeter of soil at the soillocation 11. Still further, the soil pest or pathogen to be managed atthe soil location 11 is selected from the group of phytopathogenic fungibelonging to the groups Ascomycetes and Basidiomycetes; and a selectedresponse of the soil pest or pathogen 12 to be managed at the soillocation, and which is affected by the methodology as described,hereinafter, comprises a decrease in the pathogenesis of the soilpathogen at the soil location to include, but not be limited to areduction in the diseases of root rot; leaf curl; and/leaf spot. Withregard to the present methodology 10, the method and apparatus, asdescribed hereinafter, is employed to deter or inhibit an adverse soilpest or pathogen effect or reduce pathogenesis 12 at the soil location11, so as to increase the resulting plant vigor; crop yield; and/orincrease the production quality of a plant, which is normally affectedby the soil pest, or pathogen at the soil location where the plant isbeing grown.

Referring still to FIG. 2, the method and apparatus 10 of the presentinvention includes an isolation transformer, which is generallyindicated by the numeral 20. The isolation transformer 20 operates in amanner which is well known in the art. The isolation transformer 20includes phase A, phase B and phase C isolation transformer components,and which are indicated by the numerals 21, 22 and 23, respectively. Asillustrated in FIG. 2, the respective individual isolation transformercomponents 21, 22 and 23 are electrically coupled to the source of highvoltage electricity 13, by electrical conduits 24, which directly couplethe phase A, phase B and phase C isolation transformer components to thephase A, phase B and phase C and ground 14, 15, 16 and 18, as previouslydescribed.

As seen in FIG. 1, the method and apparatus 10, as described, ispropelled over the soil location 11, in one form of the invention, by atractor, or similar vehicle 25. The tractor is of conventional designhaving earth engaging wheels 26; a forwardly oriented liftingarrangement 27; and an operator's position 28. The tractor 25 has atrailing storage region 29 for supporting components of the apparatuswhich will be described in further detail, below.

The method and apparatus 10 of the present invention (FIG. 2) includes ahigh voltage switching power supply, which is here generally indicatedby the numeral 30 in FIG. 2. The high voltage switching power supply 30includes a first and a second switching power supply 31 and 32,respectively, which cooperatively, and electrically, are coupledtogether in order to provide the benefits as will be described, below.The respective first and second high voltage switching power supplies 31and 32 each have a group of three-phase, 208 volt, power terminals 33,which are electrically coupled to the respective phase A, phase B andphase C, isolation transformer components 21, 22 and 23, respectively,as illustrated in FIG. 2. Still further, the respective high voltageswitching power supplies 30 each have a neutral terminal 34, which isconnected to the neutral terminal 17, and to the ground 18, asillustrated. Further, each of the respective first and second highvoltage switching power supplies 31 and 32, has a high voltage poweron/off terminal 35, which are respectively electrically coupled togetheras illustrated. The high voltage switching power supplies 30 areoperable to quickly, electrically charge capacitors, as will bedescribed, hereinafter. In the form of the invention as shown, therespective high voltage, switching power supplies have an averagecharging rate of about 4,000 Joules per second, at the rated outputvoltage. Further, each of the high voltage switching power supplies 31and 32 have power output terminals labeled 93(A), (Positive Terminal)and 93(B), (Negative Terminal) respectively; and yet another electricalterminal 94. Electrical conduits labeled 93(+) and 93(−) are eachelectrically coupled to the high voltage switching power supplies, andwith each of the downstream capacitors, as will be described, below.Additionally, the respective first and second high voltage switchingpower supplies 31 and 32 each have an Analog A terminal, indicated bythe numeral 41, and an Analog V terminal, which is indicated by thenumeral 42. Further, each of the aforementioned power supplies also hasa Reference terminal 43; and a V program terminal 44. Additionally, eachof the aforementioned switching power supplies has an Inhibit terminal45. As illustrated in the drawings, the first high voltage switchingpower supply 31 has a 15 volt direct current output terminal 46. As bestillustrated in FIG. 2, the V program terminals 44 are electricallycoupled together. Similarly the reference terminals 43 are electricallycoupled together.

As seen in FIG. 2, and following, the method and apparatus of thepresent invention 10 includes a high voltage control switch, which isgenerally indicated by the numeral 50, and which is used for controllingand energizing the high voltage switching power supplies 31 and 32,respectively. The high voltage control switch 50, which can be triggeredremotely by a controller, as will be described in greater detail, below,includes an electrical switch 51, and further includes a potentiometer52. Both of these are labeled in FIG. 2. The high voltage control switch50 for controlling the respective high voltage switching power supplies31 and 32, respectively, are electrically coupled to each of the highvoltage switching power supplies by means of electrical conduits 53, andwhich are electrically coupled to the terminals 43 and 44, respectively,and which are found on each of the high voltage switching power supplies31 and 32.

The method and apparatus 10 of the present invention (FIG. 2) includes apulse control and wave form monitoring unit, which is generallyindicated by the numeral 60, in FIG. 2. The pulse control and wave formmonitoring unit is electrically coupled to the aforementioned highvoltage switching power supplies 30, and high voltage control switch 50for controlling the aforementioned power supplies 30. The pulse controland wave form monitoring unit 60 includes a pair of Analog A terminals,which are generally indicated by the numeral 61. Still further, the samepulse control, and wave form monitoring unit 60 includes a pair ofAnalog V terminals 62. This same assembly 60 also includes a pair ofReference terminals 63; and a pair of Inhibit terminals which aregenerally indicated by the numeral 64. Additionally, the pulse controland wave form monitoring unit 60 includes an electrically positive pulsemonitoring terminal 65; and an electrically negative pulse monitoringterminal 66. Still further, the pulse control and wave form monitoringunit 60 includes a pair of Trigger terminals 67, and a Referencemonitoring terminal 68. As seen in the drawings, a pair of electricalconduits 70, individually couple the Analog A terminals 41, and 61,together. Still further, a pair of electrical conduits 71, individuallyelectrically couple the Analog V terminals 42 and 62 together. Stillfurther, a pair of electrical conduits 73, individually couple therespective reference terminals 43 and 63 together. Additionally, and asseen in FIG. 2, a pair of electrical conduits 74 individually couple theInhibit terminals 45 and 64, together.

The method and apparatus 10, as best seen in FIG. 2, includes acontroller which is generally indicated by the numeral 80, and which isherein illustrated as a conventional laptop computer 80, and which isfurther coupled in controlling relation relative to the pulse control,and wave form monitoring unit 60 by means of a USB cable 81. Of coursethis same electrical coupling could be achieved by a wireless connectionif desired. The controller 80, or laptop computer, provides a convenientmeans for an operator, not shown, to monitor the operation of theapparatus, which implements the methodology 10 of the present invention,and which will be described in greater detail below. Electricallycoupled to the pulse control, and wave form monitoring unit 60 is a pairof capacitors, which are generally indicated by the numeral 90. The pairof capacitors include a first capacitor 91, and a second capacitor 92.The capacitors are of conventional design, and have the ability to storeelectricity, which is generated by the high voltage switching powersupplies 30, which are, again, electrically coupled with the source ofhigh voltage electricity 13. The respective capacitors 90 are operableto be electrically charged, and then discharged during a predeterminedperiod of time so as to provide pulses of electricity, as will bedescribed below, which are then passed through the soil location 11 toachieve the benefits of the invention, as will be described in laterdetail in this Application. As illustrated, the first and secondcapacitors 91 and 92, are electrically coupled to the power outputterminals 93(A); 93(B); and 94 of each of the respective high voltageswitching power supplies 30 by a pair of electrical conduits93(Positive), and 93(Negative), in order to receive the electricalcurrent to charge same. The pair of electrical conduits 93 (Positive andNegative) are also coupled by means of an electrical conduit 95 to theReference terminal 68, and electrically terminals 94, as provided on thepulse control and wave form monitoring unit 60.

The method and apparatus 10 includes a pair of high voltage, solid-stateelectrical switches 100, which are individually electrically coupledwith each of the capacitors 91 and 92, respectively. The pair of highvoltage solid-state electrical switches include a first high-voltageswitch 101; and a second high voltage switch 102. Additionally, theapparatus 10 includes first and second pulse boards 255 and 256,respectively, (FIG. 3), and which are individually and respectivelycoupled to the first and second high voltage, solid-state switches 101and 102, respectively. As seen in the drawings (FIG. 5), individual heatsinks 105, are positioned adjacent, and in heat removing relationrelative to, the first and second high voltage, solid-state electricalswitches 101 and 102 respectively. The heat sinks are used to dissipateheat energy generated during the operation of the high voltage,solid-state electrical switches 101 and 102, respectively. The highvoltage, solid-state electrical switches comprise silicon controlledrectifiers (SCR), as illustrated. These are well known in the art andare employed to quickly, electrically open, and close, in order torelease stored electrical energy from the previously charged capacitors91 and 92, respectively, in order to achieve a discharge of pulsedelectricity as will be described, below, and which travels betweenadjacent electrodes, in order to implement the methodology forcontrolling a soil pest or pathogen at the soil location 11. As seen inthe drawings (FIGS. 3 and 5), a pair of voltage supply assemblies 253,and 254 are provided, and are further electrically coupled 259 so as toenergize the individual pulse boards 255, and 256, in the manner whichis described, below. Electrically coupled to each of the monitoringconnections, 65 and 66 are individual high voltage monitoring probes108(+) and 108(−), respectively (FIGS. 2 and 3).

Referring now to FIG. 2, and following, it will be seen that the methodand apparatus 10 of the present invention includes a multiplicity ofelectrodes which are generally indicated by the numeral 120, and whichare further operable to be placed or inserted within the soil location11, to a given depth, and wherein, when the apparatus is renderedoperational, periodic pulses of electricity of a given magnitude, andduration, are passed through the soil location 11, to be treated, inorder to achieve the benefits of the present methodology. In thisregard, the electrodes 120 (FIG. 6) include an elongated main body 121which can be repeatedly, and forcibly inserted, placed or otherwiseoriented within the soil location 11, to a given depth, by the operationof the apparatus as will be further described, hereinafter. Thisrepeated forcible insertion, or predetermined placement, and thenremoval or withdrawal of the respective electrodes 120 takes place inone form of the invention with a minimum of disturbance to the soillocation 11. The individual electrodes have a main body 121, with aproximal end 122, and which is coupled to an electrical bus as will bedescribed, below, and further has a distal end 123, and which is locateda given distance below the surface of the soil location 11. Therespective plurality of electrodes 120 include both electricallypositive electrodes 124 (FIG. 7); and electrically negative electrodes125. When rendered operational, previously stored electricity in therespective capacitors 90, passes into the individual electrodes by meansof the electrical bus as will be described, hereinafter, and then movesbetween the positive and negative electrodes 124 and 125 to achieve thebenefits of the invention. The pulse of electricity 130 which isgenerated by the electrical discharge of the capacitors 91 and 92,respectively, is represented by the numeral 130 as seen in FIG. 2,hereinafter.

Referring now to FIG. 3, an alternative embodiment of the invention isseen. In this rather simplified illustration, earlier numericaldesignations used in FIG. 2 indicate similar structures in this drawing.As will be recognized in this greatly simplified drawing, the source ofhigh voltage electricity 13; isolation transformer 20; and high voltageswitching power supplies 30 remain the same, and are electricallycoupled in a manner that is similar to that which was earlier described.Again, a controller 80 is provided, and which can be used by anoperator, not shown, who will be operating the invention 10. A pulsecontrol and wave form monitoring unit 60 is provided. In addition,capacitors 90, are repeatedly charged, and then discharged by theactions of the high voltage solid state switches 100, as illustrated. Inthis form of the invention, a voltage supply assembly 250 is provided,and which receives 110 volts AC from the isolation transformer 20, andwhich further supplies a resulting 24 volts DC to downstream first andsecond solid state relays 251, and 252 respectively. The solid staterelays are electrically coupled to the pulse control and wave formmonitoring unit 60. Additional voltage supply assembles 253 and 254,each convert 208 volt AC electrical power coming from the isolationtransformer 20, and via electrical conduits which are labeled 258, into11 volts AC, and which is then supplied to the individual positive andnegative electrical pulse printed circuit boards 255 and 256,respectively, via the electrical conduits 259. The first and secondsolid state relays 251, and 252 are coupled to the electric pulse boardcontroller 260 by pairs of electrical conduits which are labeled 257.The arrangement as seen in FIGS. 3 and 5 includes an electrical pulseboard controller 260, and which is electrically coupled 257 with therespective solid state relays 251 and 252, respectively. The pulse boardcontroller is controllably coupled by way of an optical fiber, or lightpipe 261, with each of the respective electrical pulse boards 255 and256. When energized, the pulse board controller 260 is operable to causethe respective pulse boards to activate the respective solid stateelectrical switches 100, in a manner so as to generate the predeterminedelectrical pulses 130. As earlier described, these electrical pulses 130are delivered to the electrodes 120, and then is subsequently deliveredthrough the soil location 11, so as to manage the soil pest or pathogenas 12 as discussed earlier.

As seen in the drawings (FIG. 4 and following), the present method andapparatus, which are generally indicated by the numeral 10, includes anon-conductive electrical platform which is generally indicated by thenumeral 140. The non-conductive platform has a top surface 141, and uponwhich the electrical components such as the capacitors 91 and 92 areattached; and an opposite bottom surface 142 (FIG. 6). Still further,first and second electrically conductive pathways 144, and 145, aremounted on top of the electrically nonconductive support member 146, asillustrated. Non-conductive spacing elements 143 (FIG. 10) are mountedon the top surface of electrically nonconductive support member 146. Thespacing elements 143 locate the platform 140, and non-conductive supportmember 146 in spaced relation, one, relative to the other. As should beunderstood, the respective proximal ends 123 of the individualelectrodes 120 are received through the non-conductive support member146, and are electrically coupled 122 to the electrically conductivepathways 144 and 145, respectively. The electrodes 120 are furtherpositioned in predetermined, spaced relation along the respective firstand second electrical pathways, and are spaced a given distance apart soas to form an electrode array, and wherein the respective electrodeshave a given spacing in order to achieve the benefits of the presentinvention as will be described, hereinafter (FIGS. 6 and 7). Individualelectrically conductive bus bars which are generally indicated by thenumeral 150 and 151, respectively (FIG. 7), individually couple therespective first and second electrical pathways 144 and 145 to theelectrical components, as previously described, and which will bediscussed in greater detail, below. Once assembled the platform 140 andnon-conductive support member 146 move in unison, together, in thefashion as described, hereinafter.

Referring now to FIGS. 4, 5, 7 and 8, and again referring to thenon-conductive supporting surface 146, and platform 140, the presentapparatus 10 for implementing the methodology includes a housing 160which is mounted on the top surface 141 of the non-conductive platform140. The housing 160 has multiple, substantially vertically orientedsidewalls 161, and which enclose or define a cavity for receiving theelectrical components as earlier described. As seen in FIG. 8, extendingthrough the top and bottom surfaces 141 and 142, are first and secondcapacitor posts 162 and 163, respectively, and which are individuallyelectrically coupled to the respective capacitors 91 and 92,respectively. Still further the individual capacitors 91 and 92 eachhave common electrical posts which are indicated by the numeral 164, andwhich extend through the top and bottom surfaces 141 and 142,respectively. An electrical pathway 165 electrically couples the commonposts 164, together. As also seen in FIG. 8, an electrical pathway 165is provided, and which, again, couples the common posts 164 together.Still further, an electrical pathway 166 is provided (FIG. 8), and whichextends upwardly through 141 and 142 to further electrically couple theindividual first and second capacitor posts 162 and 163, respectively,to the earlier mentioned individual high voltage solid state switches101 and 102, respectively, and which were discussed, above.

Referring now to FIG. 9, a feature of the present apparatus 10 forimplementing the methodology is shown. As seen in this view, an earthtraversing vehicle or carriage 180, is generally shown, and whichfurther is supported for rolling engagement over the soil location 11having the soil pest or pathogen 12 to be managed. The earth traversingvehicle 180 has a supporting frame 181 which moves in a spacedrelationship over the face of the earth. The earth traversing vehicle,and more specifically the supporting frame 181 has a first, or proximalend 182; and a second, or distal end 183. The supporting frame 181 isdefined, at least in part, by a pair of laterally disposed, spaced, andsubstantially parallel frame members 184. Still further, the lateralframe members 184 are held together in predetermined, spaced relation,by a manual maneuvering handle or yoke 185. This structure permits auser to maneuver or otherwise orient the frame 181 in a position so asto be effectively coupled to the tractor 25. Still further, and mountedon, and extending upwardly relative to the lateral frame members 184 isa transversely disposed and vertically extending platform guidancemember 186 which is operable to matingly cooperate with thenon-conductive support member 146 as earlier described, in order todefine a path of movement for the non-conductive supporting member 146,and which is carrying the plurality of electrodes 120 in the array, andthe platform 140 by way of the non-conductive spacing elements (notshown), and which are best seen in FIG. 6 . The lifting arrangement 27for the tractor 25 is coupled in force transmitting relation relative tothe platform guidance member 186, as best seen in FIG. 1.

As seen in FIG. 9, the earth traversing vehicle or carriage 180 is heldin rolling engagement relative to the soil requiring treatment 11 bymeans of a plurality of earth engaging wheels 190. The earth traversingvehicle 180 further includes a pair of inwardly disposed landing orcastor wheels 191, and which are mounted on the distal end 183 of thesupporting frame 181, and which further work in conjunction with themanual maneuvering yoke 185 when it is de-coupled from the tractor 25.As illustrated, the earth engaging wheels 90 are mounted in pairs on theopposite lateral frame members 184, and are located on opposite sides ofthe respective, transversely disposed, and vertically extending platformguidance members 186. The earth engaging wheels 190 each have a mainbody 192, which has an outside facing surface 193, and an opposite,inside facing surface 194. An axle 195 renders the respective earthengaging wheels 190 rotatable relative to the respective lateral framemembers 184. Rigid discs 196 cover at least in part, the inside facingsurfaces 194 of the respective earth engaging wheels 190, and individualplatform engaging posts 197 are positioned in predetermined orientationson each of the rigid discs 196, and the main body 192, and upon rotationof the earth engaging wheels 190, the non-conductive support member 146as will be described, hereinafter, will move upwardly and downwardlyrelative to the soil region requiring treatment 11, and which ispositioned, therebelow, the earth traversing vehicle 180.

Referring now to FIGS. 10 and 11, and as should be understood, thenon-conductive support member 146 is rendered movable along asubstantially vertically disposed path of travel, upwardly, anddownwardly, relative to the underlying soil treatment area 11, and whichis located, therebeneath, the earth traversing vehicle 180 by a platformmovement assembly which is further generally indicated by the numeral200. For ease in understanding the invention, 10, the housing 160, alongwith platform 140, and the mounted capacitors are removed from thedrawing as seen in FIG. 11, and following, and only the non-conductivesupport member 146 is illustrated. However, it should be understood thatthe housing 160, along with platform 140, and the mounted capacitorswhich are not illustrated, along with the underlying non-conductivesupport member 146, and through which the electrodes 120 extend, and arefurther respectively, electrically coupled to the first and secondelectrical pathways 144, and 145, move in unison, together, and alongthe aforementioned, substantially vertical path of travel by the actionof the platform movement assembly 200. In this regard, thenon-conductive support member 146 has secured atop, and along the outerperimeter of same, a vertically oriented structural member 208, and apair of laterally disposed first and second rail members 201 and 202,respectively. These aforementioned structures form a portion of theplatform movement assembly 200, and which are further operable to carrythe non-conductive support member 146 in opposite directions bothtowards, and away from, the soil treatment area 11. As can be seen, thefirst and second rail members 201 and 202, respectively, are positionedon opposite sides of the non-conductive support member 146, and aredisposed in substantially parallel, spaced relationship, one relative tothe other. The respective first and second rail members have oppositefirst and second ends 203 and 204, respectively, and which extendforwardly and rearwardly relative to the platform movement assembly 200.As can be seen in FIG. 11, a longitudinally extending channel 205 isformed in, and extends between the first and second ends 203 and 204,respectively. The individual channels are operable to engage, andreceive for movement therein the individual platform engaging posts 197,and which are mounted on the rigid discs 196. As seen in FIG. 11, therespective first and second rail members 201 and 202, respectively, havean upwardly facing surface 206. Mounted on each of the upwardly facingsurfaces is a rail engagement surface or member 207, and which isoperable to cooperate in the manner as will be described, hereinafter,with the transversely disposed, and vertically extending platformguidance member 186 which is affixed to the respective lateral framemembers 184 of the supporting frame 181.

Referring now to the drawings (FIG. 13) it will be seen that anengagement post 210 is made integral with each of the transverselydisposed and vertically extending platform guidance members 186. Therespective engagement posts 210 each extend laterally, inwardly relativeto the lateral frame members 184, and are operable to cooperate andengage the rail engagement surface 207, and which extends angularlyupwardly from the upwardly facing surface 206 of the respective firstand second rail members 201 and 202 respectively. The earth traversingvehicle 180 is moved in a given direction along a path of movement 220,and over the soil treatment area 11, in the manner as describedhereinafter, and as seen in FIG. 1. As noted earlier, the earthtraversing frame or carriage 181 incorporates or employs four earthengaging wheels 190, and which are mounted to the supporting frame 181.The area between the respective earth engaging wheels 190 is open toaccommodate the accompanying moveable platform 140, and thenon-conductive support members 146, bearing the electrodes 120, in agiven electrode array, so as to allow movement of the electrode array orindividual electrodes 120, in opposite directions, both upwardly anddownwardly, towards the soil treatment area 11. The wheels 190 which areemployed are standard wheel/tires which are typically found on car ortruck trailers, and which are between 13 and 17 inches in diameter, andwhich further have a center hole, and 4 or 5 stud holes, not shown. Therespective wheels 190 are mounted on the supporting frame 181 via theaxle 195 in the arrangement as seen in the drawings. As illustrated, aridged disc 196 is typically manufactured from aluminum, and has aroller bearing, not shown, and which is mounted adjacent to the insidefacing surface 194 of the respective earth engaging wheels. Individualplatform engaging posts 197 are made integral with, or are affixed to,this rigid or aluminum disc 196. Again, the platform movement assembly200 (FIG. 11) including the first and second rail numbers 201 and 202,are positioned therebetween the wheels 190, and the individual platformengaging posts 197 are received in the respective channels 205, andwhich are defined by the first and second rail members 201 and 202,respectively. As should be understood, as the wheels 190 rotate, whenthey are moved across the soil treatment area 11, this rotation of therespective wheels 190 causes the platform 140, and non-conductivesupport member 146, to move downwardly with the platform engaging pinsor posts 197, towards the soil treatment area 11. As should beunderstood, the weight of the apparatus 10 will force or otherwise causethe orientation or placement of the electrodes 120 into the soil to betreated 11. As will be understood the wheels 190 do not stop moving.Therefore, continuous rotation of the wheels 190 will then pick up theelectrode array as the platform engaging pins or posts 197 move upwardlyas the respective wheels 190 continue to rotate. The respective platformengaging posts 197 are offset from the center of the wheels 190 so as toutilize the wheel rotation to provide upward and downward movement, aswell as forward travel for the non-conductive support member 146, whenthe electrodes 120 are not inserted in the soil 11. The distance betweenthe individual platform engaging posts 197 from the center of the wheel190 is determined by the size of the electrode array of thenon-conductive support member 146. This further determines the distanceneeded to be covered, or traversed from the removal, to the insertion orplacement of the individual electrodes 120, into the underlying soiltreatment area 11. For example, in one possible example, if the soiltreatment area 11 is approximately 24 inches in length, the accompanyingmoveable platform and electrode array 120 will need to move 28 inches totreat the next adjoining section of soil. In this spatial arrangement,this requires a 4 and ½ inch drive or individual platform engaging post197, offset, as measured, from the wheel center to achieve this distancein one rotation of the wheels 190, as provided. Important to the successof the apparatus 10 is the channel 205 in which the individual platformengaging posts 197 move while the electrodes 120 are in contact orinserted within the soil treatment area 11. As should be understood,roller bearings, not shown, and which are positioned on the individualplatform engaging posts 197 travel in the channel 205, and allows thenon-conductive support member 146 to remain stationary in the soillocation as the individual wheels 190 rotate, and further facilitatesthe vertical movement of the electrodes 120. As should be understood, asthe electrodes 120 are inserted generally vertically into the soil, andthen are removed, generally vertically, by the movement of the platform,when the non-conductive support member 146 moves repeatedly, upwardlyand downwardly, in response to the rotation of the earth engaging wheels190. As earlier discussed, and in one possible form of the invention,the movement of the electrodes 120 takes place without a substantialdisturbance of the underlying soil surface 11. This is best seen inFIGS. 1 and 18, respectively, and where a multiplicity of apertures, 300appear in the soil which has been previously treated. These apertures,of course, were formed by the respective electrodes, 120. As should beunderstood, once the electrodes 120 are removed from the soil treatmentarea 11, the rail engaging surface 207 contacts the engagement post 210which typically has a stationary roller bearing mounted thereon. As thenon-conductive support member 146 is lifted up by the individualplatform engaging posts 197, and which is simultaneous with the movementof the wheels rotation 190, the respective engagement posts 210 comeinto contact with the rail engagement surface 207 thus applying aforward movement which is translated to the non-conductive supportmember 146. This causes the entire non-conductive support member 146,including platform 140, to move in a forward direction towards theproximal end 182, of the supporting frame 181.

Referring now to FIG. 12 and following, four positions of the movementof the non-conductive support member, 146, carrying the plurality ofelectrodes 120 during the sequence of one rotation of the wheels 190, isillustrated. Referring now to FIG. 12, it will be seen that theplurality of electrodes 120 which are located or disposed within apredetermined, spaced, electrode array is illustrated as being carriedby the earth traversing vehicle 180, and located above the surface ofthe earth. The non-conductive support member 146, which is carried bythe platform movement assembly 200 is located in a forward orientationon the individual first and second rail members 201 and 202respectively, and the respective electrodes 120 are positioned to beinserted in the soil as the wheels 190 rotate the individual platformengaging posts forward and then downwardly towards the soil treatmentregion 11. As seen in FIG. 13, the distance traveled by the earthtraversing 180 from a first starting position, A, 240, to a secondposition, B, 241 in this example, is about 9.5 inches. With regard toFIG. 13, it will be recognized that the electrodes 120 have moved to,and have contacted the soil treatment area 11. As earlier discussed, theweight of the apparatus 10 is such that the downward force of therotating individual platform engaging posts 197 which cooperate with thefirst and second rail members 201 and 202 is of a sufficient magnitudethat the individual electrodes 120 are forced into the soil treatmentarea 11 in a substantially vertical path of travel. As the wheels 190continue to rotate with only the individual platform engaging postsdownwardly directed force acting on the non-conductive support member146 by means of the first and second rail members 201 and 202,respectively it will be recognized that the forward force of the earthtraversing vehicle 180 is now isolated within the individual first andsecond rail members 201 and 202, respectively.

Referring now to FIG. 14, it will be recognized that when the earthtraversing vehicle 180 reaches a third position C, and which is labeledby the numeral 242, that the individual electrodes 120 are fullyinserted or placed into the soil treatment area 11, and the accompanyingmethodology 10 for the treatment of the soil to manage a soil pest orpathogen 12 is now being applied. As should be appreciated, when thewheels 190 continue to rotate, the individual platform engaging posts197 remain isolated within the individual first and second rail members201 and 202, while the acting force transitions from downward motion, toan opposite, upward or lifting motion as the wheels 190 continue theirrespective rotation.

Referring now to FIG. 15, and when the wheels 190 are at position D, andwhich is indicated by the numeral 243, the non-conductive support member146 has been lifted substantially vertically, upwardly, by the upwardlydirected force which is exerted on the first and second rail members 201and 202, by the individual platform engaging posts 197, and whichtransmits the upwardly directed force of the rotating wheels 190.Therefore, the electrodes 120 are no longer in contact with theunderlying soil 11. As should be understood, the isolated forward motionof the wheels 190 has caused the individual platform engaging posts 197to move in a forward direction within the channel 205 of the respectivefirst and second rail members 201 and 202, respectively, and the travelof the individual platform engaging posts 197, in the channel 205,occurs while the electrodes 120 remain in contact with the soil. Inother words, the wheels 190 have moved 9 inches further than thenon-conductive support member 146 which first carried the electrodes 120into the soil region to be treated 11. As should be understood, thecontinued movement of the wheels 190, while the individual platformengaging posts 197 lift the non-conductive support member 146 to the topof the rotation of the wheels 190, subsequently causes thenon-conductive support member 146 to be moved or propelled to a forwardmost position on the individual first and second rail members 201 and202 respectively (FIGS. 16 and 17). During this portion of the wheelrotation 190, the engagement posts, 210, engage the rail engagementsurface 207. This has the effect of forcibly moving the non-conductivesupport member 146 back to the forward most position on the first andsecond rail members 201 and 202, respectively. As should be appreciated,this sequence is repeated until the apparatus 10 reaches the end of thesoil treatment area 11, in one direction (FIG. 1). Thereafter, thelifting arrangement 27, and which is installed on the tractor 25, andwhich is further propelling the earth engaging vehicle or carriage 180along the soil treatment area 11, lifts the earth traversing vehicle180, off of the soil treatment area 11. This lifting action takes thedrive wheels 190 out of driving contact or engagement with theunderlying earth, and allows the apparatus 10 to be moved orrepositioned without the non-conductive support member 146 furthermoving upwardly and downwardly relative to the supporting frame 181. Theapparatus 10 is then positioned or relocated in an untreated soil area11, and the methodology as described, herein resumes. This process isrepeated until the desired agricultural area 280 is treated.

As seen in FIG. 1, the source of high voltage electricity 13; isolationtransformer 20; high voltage switching power supplies 30; and pulsecontrol and wave form monitoring unit 60; voltage control unit 50; aswell as the controller 80, may be positioned or carried by the tractor25, or on a separate, moveable vehicle located in close proximity to theapparatus 10 (not shown). As should be appreciated the power source 13may be stationary or mobile with appropriately sized electrical cablesconnected to the various electrical assemblies as described earlier inthis application. It should be understood that the dwelling time for theelectrical pulse 130 treatment, that is, the time that the electrodes120 are located in electrical transmitting relation relative to the soiltreatment area 11, is controlled, at least in part, by the speed of theapparatus 10 as it moves across the face of the earth. As will beunderstood, the distance between the bottom and top of the vertical pathof movement, where the individual platform engaging posts 197 carry thenon-conductive support member 146, will affect the length of time whichit takes to transition from inserting the electrodes, 120, and thenlifting the non-conductive support member 146. Thus the electrodes, 120,will remain longer in the soil treatment area 11. This allows anadditional “tuning” of the dwelling time during which the electrodes 120are discharging pulses of electricity 130 as will be described,hereinafter, to control the soil pest and/or pathogen 12 within the soiltreatment area 11. As should be understood, longer length electrodeswill require longer first and second rail members 201 and 202,respectively, so as to ensure that all the forward force of the vehicle180 is isolated while the electrodes are in contact with the soil 11. Inthis situation, it should be appreciated that a larger diameter rotationfor the individual earth engaging wheels 190 is also needed so as toprovide clearance for the longer electrodes 120, and a longerlongitudinal treatment dimension on the electrode array will beincorporated to ensure there is no untreated area in a given treatmentregion 280 (FIG. 1).

As described in the paragraphs, above, a method and apparatus for themanagement of a soil pest and/or pathogen, and which is generallyindicated by the numeral 10 is described. In the methodology of thepresent invention, and in its broadest aspect, the method includes afirst step of providing a source of high voltage electricity having apredetermined capacitance, and which is generally indicated by thenumeral 13. Still further the method includes a second step ofelectrically coupling the source of high voltage electricity 13 havingthe predetermined capacitance with the soil location 11 having a soilpest and/or pathogen 12, which requires management. In its broadestaspect the method further includes a third step of supplying the sourceof high voltage electricity 13 having the predetermined capacitance tothe soil location 11 in a predetermined number of pulses 130 to effectan in-situ management of the soil pest 12 at the soil location 11. Asshould be understood, the step of providing the high voltage electricity13 having the predetermined capacitance comprises generating a source ofhigh voltage DC electricity 13 having a voltage range of about 1 kV toabout 100 kV; an amperage of about 5 amps to about 50 kA; and afrequency of about 1 Hz to about 1000 Hz. This step further includes astep of providing a capacitance of about 1 uF to about 1,000 uF. In themethodology 10 of the present invention, the step of electricallycoupling the source of high voltage electricity 13 having thepredetermined capacitance further compromises providing a plurality ofspaced the electrodes 120, having a given length dimension, andinserting the plurality of spaced the electrodes 120 into the soillocation 11 to a predetermined depth. It should be understood that thesource of high voltage electricity having the predetermined capacitance13 is electrically coupled with at least some of the spaced electrodes120.

In the methodology as described above, the step of providing theplurality of spaced electrodes 120 further comprises selecting apredetermined spacing of the respective electrodes 120 which facilitatesa transmission of the source of high voltage electricity 13 having thepredetermined capacitance across the soil location 11 having the soilpest and/or pathogen 12 requiring management, and between at least someof the plurality of electrodes. It should be understood that thetransmission of the high voltage electricity having the predeterminedcapacitance 13 between at least some of the electrodes 120 causes adecrease in the pathogenesis of the soil pest and/or pathogen 12 whichis to be managed. In the methodology as described, the step of supplyingthe source of high voltage electricity having the predeterminedcapacitance 13 to the soil location 11 in the predetermined pulses 130further comprises selecting an application time during which therespective pulses 130 are applied of about 0.1 seconds to about 60seconds to affect a desired management of the soil pest and/or pathogen12. As noted in the earlier patent application, and from which thepresent application claims priority, the soil pest or pathogen 12 to bemanaged, produces a biological response when exposed to the pulses ofhigh voltage electricity 130 having the predetermined capacitance, andwhich is delivered to the soil location 11. As should be understood, andprior to the step of selecting an application time to affect a desiredmanagement of the soil pest and/or pathogen 12, the method 10 furthercomprises determining an electrical conductivity of the soil location11, and which has the soil pest and/or pathogen 12 requiring management;and selecting a soil pathogen response (such as reduced pathogenesis) tobe affected by the application time of the high voltage electricityhaving the predetermined capacitance 13 so as to facilitate themanagement of the soil pest and/or pathogen 12 at the soil location 11.In the methodology as described, the soil conductivity of the soillocation 11 lies within a range of about 100 to about 2,500 MicroSiemens per cubic centimeter of soil at the soil location 11.

As discussed in the prior patent application, and from which the presentapplication claims priority one of the possible soil pests 12 to bemanaged is selected from the group comprising Tylenchomorpha Nematodes;Diptherophorina Nematodes; and Dorylaminda Nematodes; and a selectedneurological response of the soil pest 12 to be managed, and which isaffected by the pulses of high voltage electricity 130 having thepredetermined capacitance comprises a motility; a sensory and/orautonomic response of the soil pest 12. In the present invention thesoil pathogen 12 to be managed is selected from the group ofphytopathogenic fungi belonging to the groups Ascomycetes andBasidomycetes, and which is effected by the pulses of high voltageelectricity 130 having the predetermined capacitance, and which causes adecrease in the pathogenesis of the above mentioned soil pathogen 12. Inthe methodology 10 as described above, the step of supplying the sourceof high voltage electricity having the predetermined capacitance 13 tothe soil location 11, and in predetermined pulses 130 to effect themanagement of the soil pest and/or pathogen 12 at the soil location 11further comprises delivering to the soil location 11 greater than about2 Joules of electricity per cubic centimeter of soil at the soillocation 11 so as to facilitate a reduction in an adverse soil pest orpathogen effect at the soil location of greater than about 5%. In thepresent application, the adverse soil pathogen effect at the soillocation 11 comprises diseases such as root rot; leaf curl; and/or leafspot affecting a plant which is planted at the soil location 11 by anaction of the soil pest and/or pathogen 12. As should be understood, theadverse soil pest or pathogen effect decreases a plant vigor; a plantcrop yield; and/or lowers the production quality of the plant which isaffected by the soil pest 12 at the soil location 11, and where theplant is being grown.

In the arrangement as shown in the drawings, and in the implementationof the methodology as noted above, the plurality of spaced electrodes120 are located at a distance of about 1 centimeter to about 40centimeters, one from another; and the respective electrodes 120 have alength dimension of about 4 centimeters to about 80 centimetersrespectively. In the methodology of the present invention, the step ofsupplying the source of high voltage electricity having thepredetermined capacitance 13 to the soil location 11 further compromisesproviding at least 1 high voltage DC solid state electrical switch 100and which, when rendered electrically closed, allows the passage of thesource of high voltage electricity having the predetermined capacitance13, and a high current to the soil location 11. Further, and when theelectrical switch is rendered electrically open, the high voltage solidstate electrical switch 100 substantially stops the passage of the highvoltage electricity having the predetermined capacitance 13, and highcurrents, to the soil location 11. The method 10 further comprisesproviding a multiplicity of capacitors 90 which are selectivelyelectrically coupled with the high voltage DC solid state electricalswitch 100. It should be understood that the high voltage DC solid stateelectrical switch 100 is electrically coupled with at least one of thecapacitors 90, and wherein the high voltage DC solid state electricalswitch 100, when rendered electrically closed, facilitates an electricaldischarge of at least one of the capacitors 90. In the arrangement asdescribed, the step of providing the source of high voltage electricityhaving the predetermined capacitance comprises generating a source ofelectricity and delivering the source of the generated electricity to atleast one of the electrically discharged capacitors 90. It should beunderstood that the respective capacitors store the high voltageelectricity having the predetermined capacitance 13 by way of the actionof the high voltage DC solid state electrical switch 100 when the highvoltage DC solid state switch is rendered electrically open.

In the methodology as described above, the multiplicity of capacitors 90each respectively have a discharge rate which is calculated as anelapsed time which is needed to electrically discharge any previouslystored electrical power in the respective capacitors 90 by way of theaction of the high voltage DC solid state electrical switch 100, andsubsequently form a pulse of high voltage electricity 130 having thepredetermined capacitance, and which is delivered to the soil location11. The step of forming a pulse of high voltage electricity 130 having apredetermined capacitance by electrically discharging each capacitor 90is accomplished at a discharge rate of about 100 microseconds to about500 milliseconds during a time interval which is less than about 1000times per second.

In the methodology 10 as described, a surge current is immediatelygenerated upon the rendering of the high voltage DC solid stateelectrical switch 100 electrically closed, and the electrical dischargeof the previously electrically charged capacitor 90, and wherein themethodology further comprises the step of generating a surge current ofabout 5 Amps to about 50 kA Amps immediately following the step ofrendering the high voltage DC electrical switch 100 electrically closed.In the present methodology 10, the method further comprises a step ofproviding an isolation transformer 20 which is electrically coupled withboth the source of high voltage electricity having a predeterminedcapacitance 13, and with a plurality of spaced electrodes 120 which areinserted into the soil location 11 having the soil pest and/or pathogen12 which needs to be managed; and operating the isolation transformer 20in a manner so as to effect a transmission of the high voltageelectricity having the predetermined capacitance 13 through the soillocation 11, and between adjacent electrodes 120, and to further impedethe dissipation of the high voltage electricity having the predeterminedcapacitance 13 into the soil at the soil location 11. In the arrangementas seen in the drawings, and in the present methodology as earlierdescribed, at least some of the plurality of spaced electrodes 120, havea different electrical polarity.

To determine the efficacy and criticality of the operational ranges ofthe present invention, the inventors performed numerous trials. Fromthis testing data the inventors scaled an appropriately sized apparatusfor implementing the methodology. In this regard, the inventors firstused a square acrylic testing cell which was approximately 1 centimeterdeep and 5 centimeter both high and wide. With this test cell, cooperelectrodes which were approximately 5 centimeter long, and 1 centimeterwide, were placed on opposite sides of the test cell and were connectedto the earlier mentioned apparatus 10 by way of copper contacts. Thetest cell was then filled with tap water as a conductive medium, andrepeated tests were performed to refine the wave form of the pulse 130,and to assure circuit stability before beginning trials. Oscilloscopesand voltage meters, as well as high voltage probes monitored the loadacross the test cell, and further monitored the discharge rates of thecapacitors 90, and the pulse rate of the computer controlled signalgenerator. In the earliest trials the electrical discharges were limitedto 2 KV [DC] and which were stored in a 4 uF, 5 KV capacitor 90, andwhich was subsequently pulsed at a rate of 20 Hz, so as to deliver about160 Joules per second. This electrical energy resulted in about 6.4Joules per cubic centimeter per second of electrical power delivered tothe test cell. In the earliest trials, Nematodes extracted from infestedsoil, and suspended in solution were placed in the water filled squareacrylic test cell, and the energy profile as recited, above, wasapplied. In a trial performed on Oct. 12, 2013, treatments of 2 KV [DC]pulsed at 20 Hz were applied for 2.5; 5 and 10 seconds, respectively.This pulsing and time duration equated to 400, 800 and 1600 Joules, or16, 32 or 64 Joules per cubic centimeter of solution. In this earliertesting, cucumber sprouts which are referred to, hereinafter, as“assays” were inoculated with treated samples having nematodes whichoperated as a soil pest. The assays were allowed to grow for a period of4 weeks alongside a control which was inoculated with untreated samplesfrom the same batch of Nematodes and solution. After 4 weeks the rootsof the cucumber “assays” were rinsed, and the galls, which are auniversal measurement of the Nematodes population, were counted orotherwise “scored.” Galling on the control roots were measured atapproximately an 80% to 90% galling. On the other hand, galling scoringon sample assays that were treated for 10 seconds showed 5% gallingafter having received an electrical dosage equal to 64 Joules per cubiccentimeter. Galling scoring on specimens that received the pulsing whichresulted in 32 Joules per cubic centimeter showed galling of about 20%,and specimens that had been exposed to 16 Joules of electricity percubic centimeter showed a galling equal to about 30%.

Similar results were achieved when trials with Nematode infested soilwas used instead of water as the Nematode medium in the square acrylictest cell. Using soil from a tomato plant infested with M. ChitwoodiNematodes, the subsequent treatment of the test cell which received 2 KV[DC] and which were pulsed at 20, 30 and 40 Hz were applied for periodsof 10, 20 and 40 seconds, respectively. This resulted in electricaldosages of 128, 192 and 256 Joules per cubic centimeter of soil beingapplied. After 3 weeks the assay roots were rinsed, and the gallsscored, as earlier discussed. With regard to the controls, the rootsshowed approximately 80% galling. For those specimens that were pulsed,and which received an electrical dosage of about 128 Joules per squarecentimeter of soil at 20 Hz, and 20 seconds, the roots showed 5%galling. Further, those test assays which received a dosage of 256Joules per cubic centimeter at 20 Hz, for 40 seconds, had roots whichshowed only 30% galling. On the other hand, those test roots that hadreceived a dosage of 192 Joules per cubic centimeter, at 30 Hz, for 20seconds, had roots which showed 20% galling. Those test roots which wereexposed to 128 Joules per cubic centimeter of soil, and 40 Hz, for 10seconds showed 0% galling. Finally, for those roots that had received anelectrical dosage of 256 Joules per cubic centimeter of soil, at 40 Hzfor 20 seconds had roots which showed 0% galling. The inventors believedthat these were surprising results that further proved the efficacy ofthe methodology in soil.

Subsequent trials using the present invention 10 served to scale themethod closer to a usable size. Moving now from the previously mentioned25 cubic centimeter test cell, to a circular test cell, the inventorsincreased the treatment area, and volume, and moved to further refinethe efficiency of the energy profile which was being delivered in orderto achieve the benefits of the present invention. During this testing, atotal volume for the circular test cell was about 31.4 cubiccentimeters. In this arrangement, a center, electrically conductive pin,and an outer ring electrode configuration was employed. The electrodesspacing remained the same. Therefore, the same amount of energy could beapplied, but to a larger volume of water or soil. In a trial performedon Nov. 20, 2013, again, Nematodes, acting as a soil pest to be managed,and previously extracted from infested soil, and suspended in solution,were placed in the water filled circular test cell. Using the samecucumber assay procedure as mentioned above, the subsequent resultswhich were generated, again, were consistent with those as observedusing the square test cell. In this testing, 2 KV [DC], at a pulse of 20and 30 Hz was applied for periods of 5 seconds; 3 seconds; and 1 second,respectively. This delivered electrical power in the amount of 50.96Joules per cubic centimeter; 15.3 Joules per cubic centimeter, 5.1Joules per cubic centimeter; and 2.55 Joules per cubic centimeterrespectively. In this testing, the capacitor as used varied between 12uF and 4 uF. This testing showed that the controls had roots where 80%galling resulted. For those assays which were exposed to 2.55 Joules percubic centimeter of electricity (1 KV at 20 Hz for 1 second with 4 uF)these assays showed galling similar to the controls. For those assayswhich received 5.1 Joules per cubic centimeter of electrical power (2 KVat 20 Hz for 1 second 4 uF) the roots showed galling of about 70%.Another assay, which received 15.3 Joules per cubic centimeter, resultedin only 40% galling. An analysis of all the data received showed thatthose assays receiving electrical current in the amount of 50.96 Joulesper cubic centimeter (2 KV at 20 Hz for 5 seconds, 12 uF) had rootswhich had 0% galling. The inventors have theorized, based on thisinformation, that increased capacitance had a greater impact thanoriginally thought in the elimination or impeding of subsequent Nematodeinfestations.

In one of the first usages of the current invention, 4 pin electrodeswhich were spaced 5 centimeter apart, and oriented in a square-likearrangement was configured to have a third 4 uF/5 KV capacitor.Therefore a total of 12 uF was used to treat plant pots containing 125cubic centimeters of infested soil at that time. A trial was performedon Dec. 19, 2013 and used soil from a tomato plant infested with M.Chitwoodi Nematodes. This infested soil was distributed into the potsand the treatment which was applied was 2 KV [DC], and which was pulsedat 20 Hz, and which further was applied for 2.5; 5; 10; 15; 20 and 30seconds, respectively. When the results were obtained, the controlplants showed roots having galling in an amount equal to about 80%. Forthose specimens that received electrical pulses equal to of about 76.8Joules per cubic centimeter, and 20 seconds duration, 0% galling wasobserved. For those specimens receiving 38.4 Joules per cubiccentimeter, and 10 seconds of treatment, 5% galling was observed. Forthose roots that had received 57.6 Joules per cubic centimeter ofelectricity, and 15 seconds of treatment, 0% galling was evident. Forthose specimens receiving 19.2 Joules per cubic centimeter, and 5seconds of treatment, 10% galling was observed. For those plantsreceiving 115 Joules per cubic centimeter of electricity, and 30 secondsof treatment, 0% galling was observed. Interestingly, one specimen thathad received 9.6 Joules per cubic centimeter, and 2.5 seconds oftreatment, showed galling which was 200-300% greater than the control.This was indeed a very surprising result. These results suggested thatthe application of electrical power in this range elicited a hatchresponse from the Nematode eggs present in the infested soil. This wasan important discovery for the inventors inasmuch as the inventors wereable to pinpoint one region in the range of electricity that wasdelivered, and which is necessary to elicit a hatch response. This is animportant discovery inasmuch as the initiation of a hatch response, infallow soil, could lead to further control of the soil pest 12 becausethose

Nematodes hatched in this manner could potentially starve to deathbefore the soil could be planted with a plant. This would inhibit theinfection of the plants subsequently planted.

In addition to the foregoing, another trial was performed on Dec. 19,2013, and focused on the Soybean Cyst Nematode (acting as the soil pest)and which was extracted from infested soil and suspended in a solutionthat was subsequently distributed into sterile soil, and then treatedwith the methodology of the present invention. The present invention wasconfigured with 3 capacitors (12 uF), and a resulting treatment of 2 KV[DC] was applied at pulses of 20 Hz, for time periods of 5; 10; 15; and20 seconds, respectively. Using the same methodology as the cucumberassay procedure, as earlier discussed, the results proved the efficacyof the method. It should be understood that the Soybean Cyst Nematode isa particularly difficult Nematode to effect or treat because of theresilient outer shell of the cyst which contains the target eggs. Toachieve any noteworthy effect would surpass any previous attempts thatare known. The aforementioned electrical treatment which was applied tothe test cell demonstrated the effectiveness of the present invention byreducing the number of cysts per gram of root that was subsequentlyanalyzed. For example, control plants typically had 100 cysts per gramof root. Whereas, for those plants exposed to the electrical treatmentwhich resulted in a dosage of 76.8 Joules per cubic centimeter of soil(20 second treatment), only 25 cysts per gram of root were found. Forthose assays receiving a dosage of 38.4 Joules per cc (15 secondtreatment), a complete population collapse was observed and which isbelieved due to the treatment. Further, for those plants that received atreatment of 57.6 Joules per cubic centimeter of soil, 75 cysts per gramof root were observed. Further, for those plants that received anelectrical treatment of 19.2 Joules per cubic centimeter, (5 seconds oftreatment), only 20 cysts per gram of root was observed.

In another series of tests, the present methodology was used todetermine a damage threshold for a plant root system. Using the abovementioned 2 KV [DC] which was applied with a capacitor delivering 12 uFof electrical power, at pulses to 20 to 60 Hz, and then applied indwelling times up to 60 seconds, this electrical energy was delivered toboth sod samples, and small lemon cypress trees in an attempt to harmthe plants. After several weeks of observation, only the samples treatedwith the highest frequencies for the longest dwelling times showed anysign of damage. The damage is believed to be caused primarily by theexcessive heat which is generated by the aforementioned electricaldelivery. The results suggest that the methodology can be applied toplants and the soil without concern for damaging the plants, providing,however, that a relatively short dwelling time is utilized. One of thesurprising results in the testing which was observed by the inventors isthat while early tests were conducted with 4 electrodes which had atarget spacing of about 5 centimeters, the inventors expanded theelectrode array in order to include more electrodes. What surprised theinventors was that as the number of electrodes 120 increased, thedischarge rate for the apparatus became shorter with the addition ofeach electrode. With a shorter discharge rate, the apparatus 10 wasallowed more time to recharge. This period of rest between dischargeswas important to maintain the remaining components in an operationalstate, and to prevent the buildup of excessive heat in the respectivecomponents.

The early trials conducted by the inventors were substantially fixed atabout 2 kV of electrical power, but the inventors varied the frequency[Hz], capacitance [uF], and dwell time as measured in seconds, that wereemployed to establish that an effective range for impeding orcontrolling the aforementioned soil pests lied in a range of about 2Joules per cubic centimeter of soil up to 256 Joules. This criticalrange provides a target for scaling any resulting apparatus to what isachievable for a device which is employed in various agriculturalapplications. In constructing and deploying an appropriate apparatus,care must be taken to maintain the effective electrical dose, that is,the Joules per cubic centimeter, by way of selecting, and then balancingall of the following: generating and applying more electrical energy;incorporating more efficient components in a delivery apparatus; andreducing the dwell time, that is, the amount of time during the deliveryof the electrical pulses, and for making the conductive medium (soil)more electrically conductive.

To continue the exploration of the efficacy of the present methodology,the inventors did testing regarding the use of the pulses of electricity130 as applied to earthworms as described below. In this regard, itshould be understood that earthworms are beneficial in agriculture.However in the case of the golf and turf industries, they are anuisance. The earthworm trial served to demonstrate the effect of theelectrical pulses 130 which were applied to a soil location containingearthworms. The treatments ranged from about 1.9 Joules per second, toabout 75 Joules per second. The results were surprising, but yet notunexpected based upon the earlier research. In the very firstapplication of the treatment prior to the beginning of the trial cycle,the application of 1 pulse of electricity which was equal to 1.5 kV at 8uF was sufficient to stun an earthworm which was placed in water.Although the earthworm revived in a few minutes it was outlived by aconsiderable margin by the control earthworms which were utilized in thetest. This result was consistent across the treatment spectrum. Thecontrol worms survived several days, while the longest surviving andpreviously treated worm survived less than 24 hours. Those worms exposedto a longer treatment time survived a shorter period of time than thoseexposed to a shorter treatment time. All the trials performed with theearthworms were performed with 2 capacitors, each having a capacity for4 uF. Earthworms were placed in both soil, and then later in water, andthen were subsequently exposed to 1.5 kV at 20 Hz for selected timeperiods 5; 2 and 1 second, respectively, and which received 9.6; 3.8 and1.9 Joules of electricity respectively. In a second test, which wasperformed in soil, the earthworms were exposed to 2 kV at 20 Hz, andwhich received electrical pulses for durations of 30 seconds; 10seconds; 5 seconds; and 2 seconds respectively. In this test, theearthworms were exposed to 76.8; 25.6; 12.8 and 5.12 Joulesrespectively. In a third test which was conducted in water, theearthworms were exposed to 1.5 kV, at 20 Hz, for time periods of 5seconds; 2 seconds; and 1 second, respectively. The earthworms receivedduring these time periods 38; 15.3; and 7.6, Joules of electricity,respectively. Again, survival of the earthworms was proportional to thedosage of electricity received.

The inventors performed further tests on wax worms which served as ananalog for pests with similar physiology such as grubs for whichinterest is quite high in the turf industry. In this regard, theinventors observed similar responses to the treatment as the earthwormsdescribed above, although not as dramatic. The inventors observed that,rather than hours, it took wax worms several days to die while thecontrols took nearly a week. As with the earthworms, the wax wormsexposed to longer treatments of electricity survived a shorter period oftime, while those with shorter treatment times lived longer. Thecontrols outlived all of the treated worms. These trials and otherswithin the ranges discussed proved the efficacy of the methodology andthe criticality of the ranges as earlier described in this application.

What follows are the investigations which have previously taken place toverify the effects of the present methodology on the earlier mentionedpathogenic fungi as might be found in a given soil region as discussedearlier in this patent application.

As should be understood, Phytophthora cinnamomi is a fungal soil-borneorganism that produces an infection of disease in plants called “rootrot” or “dieback”. This plant pathogen is one of the world's mostinvasive fungal species, and it is present in over 70 countries aroundthe world. Further it has over 1,000 hosts, including many species ofannual flower crops; berries; deciduous fruit trees; ornamentals; andvegetables. Early symptoms of a fungal infection include wilting,yellowing and retention of dried foliage, as well as a darkening of theroot color.

Phytophthora cinnamomi fungal infections often lead to the death of theplant, especially in dry summers when the plants may be water-stressed.In the wild, or other uncultivated areas, the effects of Phytophthoradieback can spread to native plant communities, and kill many othersusceptible plants. Dieback disease can eventually lead to a permanentdecline in an ecosystem's biodiversity, and further disrupt otherecosystem processes. This may result in a change in the composition of aforest, for example, and this may further affect native animals in thatsame ecosystem.

In gardens and crops, the fungal disease or infection of dieback affectsmany common garden species, and horticultural crops including roses;azaleas; and fruit trees. Once this fungal disease has been introducedinto a garden or a field, it cannot be easily eradicated, and may becomea serious problem. A range of integrated approaches can reduce theimpact of this fungal pathogen. These approaches may include injectingor spraying plants with a fungicide, e.g. phosphate; usingwell-composted mulch; and using pre-planting techniques such assolarization or bio-fumigation, to name a few. The integrated approachescan be effective, but they are often expensive, and many timesimpractical to employ. For example, fumigation is often not recommended,even at the maximum rate of application for the given fumigant selected,because the pathogen P. cinnamomi can, and often does, re-invade thefumigated soil, at a later date, and the resulting fungal disease couldbecome more severe than what had been previously experienced prior tothe fumigation. This effect is believed to result from a reduction ofthe soil microbial communities, and competing microorganisms caused bythe applied fumigant.

Verticillium dahlia, a fungal pathogen that causes Verticillium wilt,infects over 400 plants including herbaceous annuals; perennials; andwoody perennials. Verticillium wilt is problematic in temperate areas ofthe world, and especially in irrigated regions. This fungal pathogen canpersist in the soil for many years in the absence of a susceptible crop.As a diseased plant dies, the fungus produces microsclerotia which arethen released into the soil along with the decomposed plant. The fungussurvives for many years in this dormant form, or as mycelium or conidiain the vascular system of perennial plants. Symptoms vary amongst hosts,but in general, the fungus causes premature foliar chlorosis, necrosisand vascular discoloration in the stems and roots of the infected plant.

There are no curative methods against this fungal disease once it hasinfected the plant. There are, however, several cultural practices whichhave been employed in the past to reduce the effects of fungal diseaseincluding planting pathogen-free stock into soil which is free of thepathogen, but this is not always practical. The application of soilfumigants is an effective, but expensive control tactic. Depending uponthe fumigant selected, the rate of fumigant application, and thesurrounding environmental conditions at time of fumigant application, areduction in the soil fungal populations can range from 85-95%. However,fumigation rates of application need to be high when soil populations ofVerticillium are large, or when populations need to be reduced forperennials. Moreover, soil fumigants are not environmentally friendly orresponsible solutions. As a result, most fumigants will no longer beavailable of use, or may be restricted for use in the next severalyears.

The examples which follow will demonstrate the effectiveness of thedisclosed methodology relative to two economically important, andcosmopolitan fungal pathogens, Verticillium dahlia and Phytophthoracinnamomic which have proven to be challenging to manage using the abovementioned chemical or cultural controls used heretofore.

EXAMPLE 1

Phytophthora cinnamomi inoculum was produced using modified methods forPythium species as described in the reference to Weiland et al., 2013. Asingle-spore isolate R056, and which was derived from a rhododendron,was grown on a plate containing 20 ml. clarified V8 juice agar (3.4 gCaCO₃ mixed with 340 ml. V8 juice), and which was further filteredthrough eight layers of cheesecloth. This solution was then diluted 1:4with distilled water and then combined with 17 grams of agar/liter for 7days. The colonized agar was then cut into approximate 1.5 cm² piecesand then added to a spawn bag which was secure from Fungi Perfecti,Olympia, Wash.. The aforementioned spawn bag also contained 2 liters ofclarified V8 juice broth (150 mL clarified V8 juice prepared with CaCO₃,and 1850 ml distilled water), and 3 liters of dry coarse vermiculitethat had been autoclaved three times at 48 hour intervals. Theinoculated spawn bag was incubated in the dark at a temperature of 20°C. for 2 months, and further experienced weekly mixing. The resultinginoculum was then removed from the bag, air-dried for 3 days, and thenstored at a temperature of 20° C. The inoculum density was estimated bydilution plating 0.5 ml. of a 1% inoculum slurry (1 g of inoculum mixedwith 99 ml of 0.2% water agar), onto each of 10 plates of PARP, which isa semi-selective medium for pythiaceous species as described in thereference authored by Kannwischer and Mitchell, in 1978.

Verticillium dahliae inoculum was produced using the methods modifiedfrom the reference to Pinkerton et al., 2000. Four single-spore isolatesof V. dahliae (isolates which were identified as 01-08, 17-08, and 21-08which were derived from black raspberry; and an isolate which wasidentified as 10-11, and which was derived from red raspberry) were eachgrown on a plate containing 20 ml. of potato dextrose agar for 3 weeksat a temperature of about 20° C. The resulting colonized agar was thencut into approximate 1.5 cm² pieces, and then added into a separatespawn bag, which was secured from Fungi Perfecti, Olympia, Wash. Thiswas combined with 1 liter of soaked rye grain that had been autoclavedthree times at 48 hour intervals. The inoculated spawn bag was incubatedin the dark at a temperature of about 20° C., and further mixed weeklyfor 6-8 weeks until abundant microsclerotia had formed. The resultinginoculum was then removed from the bag, and air-dried for 1 week.Approximately 10 grams of the dried inoculum was then ground into apowder with a Wiley mill (model 3383-L10, Thomas Scientific, Swedesboro,N.J.) by employing a 20-mesh screen. The inoculum for each isolate wasthen mixed into 500 grams of dry 1-mm-diameter sand, and then stored ata temperature of about 20° C. The resulting inoculum density wasestimated with the Andersen sampler technique (as set forth in thereference to Butterfield and DeVay, in 1977) by plating 0.05 g of theinfested sand for each isolate onto each of 10 plates of NP-10, which isa semi-selective medium for V. dahliae (as described in the reference toKabir et al., in 2004).

Inoculum derived using the above noted protocols from both P. cinnamomiand V. dahliae (each isolate added in equal proportions) were then mixedtogether with 24 kg. of soil (50% sand/50% sandy loam); and 400 ml. ofdistilled water to achieve a final concentration of about 100propagules/gram soil (ppg) for each pathogen. This infested soil wasthen distributed to 48 pots (500 cm³/pot). Soil in each of theaforementioned pots was then subjected to the earlier mentionedmethodology, and where high, medium and low amounts of predetermined,pulsed electrical power were applied to the infest soil mixture. Eachelectrical of the pulsed electrical treatments was replicated six times,and the entire experiment was repeated two months later. Aftertreatment, surviving P. cinnamomi and V. dahliae fungi were enumeratedfrom each pot. During the present tests, the soil experienced periodicpulses of electrical power which was considered low, (6 Joules ofelectricity per cubic centimeter of soil); medium, (13 Joules ofelectricity per cubic centimeter of soil); and high, (26 Joules ofelectricity per cubic centimeter of soil).

FIG. 19 shows the effect of the delivered energy treatments (low; mediumand high) on P. cinnamomic survival in the infested soil pots. Twoseparate trials were performed, and both trials gave similar results.Low, Medium and High energy treatments significantly reducedPhytophthora inoculum compared to the untreated control (P<0.05) (Pleasesee Table 1, below). All of the three energy treatments, Low, Medium,and High reduced the Phytophthora inoculum.

TABLE 1 Analysis of Variance—Phytophthora cinnamomi Source DF Adj SS AdjMS F-Value P-Value Trial 1 560.3 560.3 0.74 0.454 Trt 3 30139.7 10046.613.20 0.031 Trial*Trt 3 2283.7 761.2 2.20 0.103 Error 40 13821.3 345.5Total 47 46805.0

Grouping Information Using the Tukey Method and 95%Confidence—Phytophthora cinnamomi

Trt N Mean Grouping Control 12 60.0000 A Low 12 5.6667 B Med 12 1.3333 BHigh 12 0.0000 B

FIG. 20 shows the effects of the aforementioned periodic energytreatments (low; medium and high) on Verticillium dahlia survival ininfested soil pots. The first trial had more inoculum than the secondtrial (trial effect), but otherwise both trials gave similar results.Periodic, pulsed medium, and high energy treatments, in accordance withthe teachings of the present invention, significantly reducedVerticillium inoculum as compared to the untreated control (propagulesper gram soil). This is seen in Table 2, below, and FIG. 20. Medium andhigh, pulsed energy treatments controlled Verticillium inoculum(propagules per gram soil).

TABLE 2 Analysis of Variance—Verticillium dahlia Source DF Adj SS Adj MSF-Value P-Value Trial 1 5985.3 5985.3 19.34 0.022 Trt 3 23783.0 7927.725.61 0.012 Trial*Trt 3 928.7 309.6 1.37 0.265 Error 40 9022.7 225.6Total 47 39719.7

Grouping Information Using the Tukey Method and 95% Confidence

Trt N Mean Grouping Control 12 80.5000 A Low 12 61.0000 A B Med 1239.5000 B C High 12 21.3333 C

It should be clear from this test data, above, that the predetermined,pulsed energy delivered by means of the present invention to the soilinoculated with Verticillium or Phytophthora, separately, resulted in asignificant reduction in the number of the pathogens in relation to theuntreated controls. Furthermore, no Phytophthora propagules weredetected in the soil following a pulsed, high energy application. Therewas a significant reduction of Verticillium propagules in the highenergy treatment in comparison to the untreated control. The presentmethodology clearly demonstrated that it was able to control the mostchallenging fungal pathogens in replicated soil studies.

-   -   Operation

The operation of the described embodiment of the present invention isbelieved to be readily apparent is briefly summarized at this point. Anapparatus for managing a soil pest and or pathogen, and which implementsthe present methodology as previously described includes as a firstmatter, a source of high voltage electricity having a predeterminedcapacitance 13; and an isolation transformer 20 which is electricallycoupled with the source of the high voltage electricity having thepredetermined capacitance 13. The apparatus for implementing themethodology includes a plurality of spaced electrodes 120 which arelocated in electrical contact with a soil location 11, and which has asoil pest or pathogen 12, to be managed. The isolation transformer 20 iselectrically coupled to the respective spaced electrodes 120. Theapparatus for implementing the methodology includes a capacitor 90 whichis electrically coupled with a source of high voltage electricity havinga predetermined capacitance 13, and with the plurality of spacedelectrodes 120. The capacitor 90 can store the source of high voltage ofelectricity having the predetermined capacitance 13, and subsequentlydischarge the previously stored high voltage of electricity having thepredetermined capacitance to the plurality of spaced electrodes 120. Theapparatus to implement the present methodology includes a high voltageelectrical switch 100, and which is electrically coupled to thecapacitor 90, and which further can be rendered electrically opened, orclosed, in a predetermined manner so as to produce a predeterminedelectrical pulse 130 which is electrically transmitted to the respectiveplurality of spaced electrodes 120, and across the soil location 11. Theelectrical pulse 130 delivers at least about 2 Joules of electricity percubic centimeter of soil, and which is located at the soil location, andbetween the respective plurality of spaced electrodes 120 so as tofacilitate a management of the soil pest and/ or pathogen 12.

The apparatus 10 as employed to implement the methodology as earlierdescribed includes, in one form of the invention, a plurality of spacedelectrodes 120 which have different electric polarities. In thearrangement as illustrated, the isolation transformer 20 facilitates thecontrollable transmission of the electrical pulse 130 through the soil12, and at the soil location 11, and between the plurality of spacedelectrodes 120 and further impedes the electrical pulses 130 fromsubstantially electrically dissipating into the soil location. In thearrangement as seen in the drawings, and which implements themethodology, the high voltage electrical switch 100 comprises aSCR/thyristor. As noted above, the plurality of electrodes are orientedin a predetermined array which can be readily moved from a first soillocation 271 to a second soil location 272 (FIG. 1) in a repeatingmanner, so as to treat a given agricultural area 280. In the arrangementas seen in the drawings, the plurality of spaced electrodes 120 arelocated at a distance of about 1 centimeter, to about 40 centimeters,one relative to the others. Each electrode 120 has a length dimension ofabout 4 centimeters to about 80 centimeters. In the arrangement as seenin the drawings, the apparatus for implementing the methodology includesa controller 80 which senses a soil conductivity of the soil location11. The controller 80 is electrically coupled with a source ofelectricity having the predetermined capacitance 13, and with a highvoltage electrical switch 100. The controller 80 adjustably controls thegeneration of the electrical pulses 130 based upon the detected soilconductivity, so as to facilitate the delivery of the at least 2 Joulesof electricity per cubic centimeter of soil that is located between theelectrodes 120 which have been inserted in the soil location 11.

As earlier noted, the source of high voltage electricity having thepredetermined capacitance 13 has a voltage range of about 1 kV to about100 kV; an amperage of about 5 Amps to about 50 kA; a frequency of about1 Hz to about 1000 Hz; and a capacitance of 1 uF to about 1,000 uF.

The apparatus for implementing the methodology 10 of the presentinvention produces or generates a multiplicity of electrical pulses 130which are generated and transmitted to the soil location 11. Therespective electrical pulses are delivered to the soil location at apredetermined frequency, and are further applied for a time period ofabout 0.1 to about 60 seconds. As seen in the drawings, the apparatusdelivers electrical pulses 130 to the soil location 11 in a range ofabout 2 Joules to about 500 Joules of electricity per cubic centimeterof soil at the soil location 11, and to a soil depth of less than about80 centimeters. The delivery of the electrical pulses 130 facilitatesthe management of the soil pest and/or pathogen 12 at the soil location11. In the arrangement, as earlier described, the respective electricalpulses 130 are generated over a time period of about 100 microseconds toabout 500 microseconds. In the arrangement as previously described, therespective electrical pulses 130 are generated at less than about 1000times per second. In the present invention, the high voltage electricalswitch 100, when rendered electrically closed, is effective inelectrically discharging at least one of the capacitors 90, andimmediately generating a surge current of about 5 Amps to about 50 kA.

The apparatus for implementing the methodology of the present invention10 includes a high voltage electrical switch 100 which comprises amultiplicity of high voltage electrical switches which are individuallyassociated with each of the respective plurality of capacitors 90. Theapparatus further comprises an electrical switch driver 255/256 which isoperably associated with each of the high voltage electrical switches100 and which is further operable to render the respective high voltageelectrical switches 100 electrically open, and closed, so as to affectthe generation of the electrical pulses 130. The apparatus furtherincludes a controller 80 which is operably coupled to each of therespective electrical switch drivers 255/256 via control board 260.

In the arrangement as seen in the drawings, the apparatus forimplementing the present methodology 10 includes an electrical bus 150and 151, respectively, and which are electrically coupled in electricalcurrent receiving relation relative each to the capacitors 90, and arefurther disposed in electrical current discharging relation relative toeach of the electrodes 120. In the arrangement as seen in the drawings,the respective spaced electrodes 120 have opposite first and second ends122 and 123 respectively. The first end 122 of each electrode 120 issupported on an electrically nonconductive support member 146, in apredetermined spaced arrangement, so as to form an array of electrodes120, and which individually extend outwardly from the support member146. The electrodes are further inserted into the soil at the soillocation 11, and further the electrical bus 150 and 151, respectively,is electrically coupled to the first end of each of the electrodes 120so as to deliver the generated pulse of high voltage electricity 130into the soil location 11 by way of the plurality of electrodes 120.

The apparatus for implementing the methodology 10 further comprises anearth traversing vehicle 180 which is supported for rolling engagementover the soil location 11 having the soil pest and/or pathogen 12 to bemanaged. The earth traversing vehicle has a vertically movablenon-conductive support member 146 which is borne by the earth traversingvehicle 180, and which is movable along a path of travel 220 from afirst position, 240, where the non-conductive support member 146 isdisposed in spaced relation relative to the soil location 11; to asecond position, 241, and where the non-conductive support member 146 isthen located adjacent to the soil location 11. The plurality ofelectrodes 120 which are mounted on, or made integral with thenon-conductive support member 146, are then inserted into, andsubsequently withdrawn from the soil location 11, by the verticalmovement of the non-conductive support member 146, as the non-conductivesupport member 146 moves between the first and second positions 240 and241, respectively. The non-conductive support member 146 movesrepeatedly between the first and second positions 240 and 241, as theearth traversing vehicle 180 continues to move over the soil location11. It should be understood that the non-conductive support member 146,carrying the plurality of electrodes 120, remains motionless, and incontact with the soil location 11, for a predetermined time period(dwelling time) as the earth traversing vehicle 180 remains in motionover the soil location 11.

The soil location to be treated 11 typically comprises a narrowlyelongated soil location (FIG. 1) having a given surface area, and whichis located within a larger cultivated agricultural area 280 which hasthe soil pest and/or pathogen 12 that needs management. The earthtraversing vehicle 180 sequentially inserts and then withdraws theplurality of electrodes 120 which are borne by the non-conductivesupport member 146 in a fashion so as to facilitate a resultingtreatment of the entire surface area of the narrowly elongated soillocation 11 to effect the management of the soil pest and/or pathogen12, and while minimally disturbing the soil location as the plurality ofelectrodes 120 are repeatedly inserted into and then withdrawn from thesoil location by the vertical movement of the moveable non-conductivesupport member 146 as effected by the continuous movement of the earthtraversing vehicle 180.

The methodology of the present invention is more specifically describedbelow. In this regard the method of the present invention 10 includes,as a first step, providing a source of high voltage electricity 13; andalso providing a plurality of spaced electrodes 120 each having a givenlength dimension, and which are oriented in a predetermined spacedrelationship one relative to the other. The plurality of spacedelectrodes are oriented in a given pattern and are positioned inelectrical discharging relation relative to a soil location 11 having asoil pest and/or pathogen 12 to be managed. The method includes anotherstep of providing a capacitor 90, and which is electrically coupled withthe source of high voltage electricity, and storing the source of highvoltage electricity in the capacitor so as to form a source of highvoltage electricity having a predetermined capacitance 13. Themethodology includes another step of providing a high voltage solidstate electrical switch 100 which is electrically coupled with thesource of high voltage electricity having the predetermined capacitance13, and which further is stored in the capacitor 90. The method furtherincludes another step whereby the high voltage solid state electricalswitch 100 is further electrically coupled with each of the spacedelectrodes 120. In the present methodology the high voltage solid stateelectrical switch 100 can be rendered electrically opened so as tofacilitate a storage of the source of high voltage of electricity in thecapacitor 90; and electrically closed, so as to facilitate an electricaldischarge of the capacitor 90, and the subsequent delivery of the sourceof high voltage electricity having the predetermined capacitance 13 tothe respective plurality of electrodes 120. The method includes anotherstep of providing an electrical switch driver 255/256 which iselectrically coupled with the high voltage solid state electrical switch100. The switch driver 255/256, when actuated, is effective in causingthe high voltage solid state electrical switch 100 to be rendered eitherelectrically open or electrically closed. The methodology includesanother step of providing an isolation transformer 20 which iselectrically coupled with both the source of the high voltageelectricity having the predetermined capacitance 13, and with theplurality of spaced electrodes 120, and which are oriented in electricaldischarging relation relative to the soil location 11; and controllingthe operation of the isolation transformer 20 in a manner so as toeffect a transmission of the high voltage electricity having thepredetermined capacitance 13 through the soil location 11, and betweenthe adjacent spaced electrodes 120, and to further impede thedissipation of the high voltage electricity having the predeterminedcapacitance into the soil, at the soil location 11. The method includesanother step of providing a controller 80 which is coupled incontrolling relation relative to the electrical switch driver 255/256,and which is effective in rendering the high voltage solid stateelectrical switch 100 electrically opened, and closed. The methodincludes another step of repeatedly rendering the electrical switchdriver 255/256 operable to facilitate an electrical opening and closingof the high voltage solid state electrical switch 100, and so forming amultiplicity of pulses of electricity 130 which are delivered to theplurality of electrodes 120, and which are oriented in electricaldischarging relation relative to the soil location 11. The plurality ofelectrical pulses 130 which are generated facilitate a reduction in anadverse soil pest or pathogen effect at the soil location 11 of greaterthan about 5%.

In the methodology as described above, the step of providing a source ofhigh voltage electricity further comprises supporting a mobile electricpower generating assembly 290 on an earth traversing vehicle 25 formovement across the soil location having a soil pest and/or pathogen 12requiring management (FIG. 1); and generating the source of high voltageelectricity with the mobile electric power generation assembly 290. Withregard to the methodology as described, the step of providing theplurality of spaced electrodes 120 further comprises operably couplingthe plurality of spaced electrodes 120 on an earth traversing carriage180, and moving the plurality of electrodes across the soil locationhaving the soil pest 12 to be managed. The earth traversing carriage 180moves the respective spaced electrodes 120 vertically into, and out ofthe soil location 11. In the methodology as described, earlier, the stepof providing the plurality of spaced electrodes 120 comprises providinga plurality of individual electrodes having a given length dimension,and positioning the individual electrodes 120 in a predetermined, spacedarray; and then inserting the plurality of electrodes 120 having thegiven length dimension to a predetermined depth in the soil location 11having the soil pest and/or pathogen 12 to be managed.

In the methodology as described, the step of providing the spacedelectrodes 120 further comprises providing a movable, non-conductivesupport member 146 on an earth traversing carriage 180; moveablycoupling the non-conductive support member 146 on the earth traversingcarriage; mounting the spaced electrodes 120 on the movablenon-conductive support member 146; propelling the earth traversingcarriage 180 across the soil location 11; and moving the non-conductivesupport member 146 mounting the spaced electrodes 120, along asubstantially vertically disposed path of travel so as to repeatedlyinsert, and then withdraw the electrodes 120 from the soil location 11having the soil pests and/or pathogens to be managed 12 for apredetermined period of time [dwelling time] to facilitate the reductionin the adverse soil pest or pathogen effect(s) at the soil location 11.

In the methodology as described, the adverse soil pest effect at thesoil location 11 comprises, in one form of the invention, root gallingand/or root infestation of a plant which is planted at the soil location11 by an action of a soil pest 12 such as a Nematode. Further theadverse soil pathogen effect, in one form of the invention comprises areduction in the soil pathogen pathogenesis of a fungi which causes rootrot; leaf curling and/or leaf spot for a plant growing at the soillocation 11 which is being treated. The adverse soil pest and/orpathogen effect decreases a plant vigor; a crop yield; and/or lowers aproduction quality of the plant which is affected by the soil pestand/or pathogen 12, at the soil location 11. In the methodology asdescribed above, the step of forming the multiplicity of pulses ofelectricity 130 further comprises selecting a pulse application timeduring which the respective electrical pulses 130 are applied to thesoil location 11, and which lies in a range of about 0.1 seconds toabout 60 seconds to effect the desired management of the soil pest 12.In the methodology as described above, and before the step performingthe multiplicity of pulses of electricity 130, the method furthercomprises determining an electrical conductivity of the soil location11, and which has the soil pest and/or pathogen 12 requiring management;and selecting a desired response of the soil pest and/or pathogen 12 tobe affected by the application time of the respective electrical pulses130 delivered to the soil location 11. In the methodology as described,the step of determining the electrical conductivity of the soilcomprises orienting a sensor in electrical conductive sensing relationrelative to the soil location 11; and coupling the sensor in a signaltransmitting relation relative to the controller 80. The step ofproviding the controller 80 further comprises adjustably controlling theelectrical switch driver 255/256 with the controller 80 so as to produceresulting electrical pulses 130 to effect the desired management of thesoil pest and/ or pathogen 12 at the soil location 11.

Therefore, it will be seen that the present method and apparatus for themanagement of a soil pest and/or pathogen 12 provides a convenient meansfor reducing an adverse soil pest or pathogen effect on plants that areplanted in an agricultural region 280 in a manner not possible,heretofore. The present methodology, and the apparatus which is utilizedto implement same, is convenient to utilize, is environmentallyfriendly, and provides a convenient means for treating large regions ofagricultural production land in a manner which was inconceivable beforenow. The present methodology and apparatus provides surprising resultsin view of the long-felt need to control soil pests and soil pathogenswhich have such had such a devastating effect on various crops that areplanted both domestically and worldwide.

In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described inlanguage more or less specific as to structural and methodical features.It is to be understood, however, that the invention is not limited tothe specific features shown and described since the means hereindisclosed comprise preferred forms of putting the invention into effect.The invention is therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modificationswithin the proper scope of the appended claims appropriately interpretedin accordance with the Doctrine of Equivalence.

1. A method for the management of a soil pest or pathogen, comprising:providing a source of high voltage electricity having a predeterminedcapacitance; electrically coupling the source of high voltageelectricity having the predetermined capacitance with a soil locationhaving a soil pest which requires management; and supplying the sourceof high voltage electricity having the predetermined capacitance to thesoil in a predetermined number of pulses to effect an in-situ managementof the soil pest of pathogen at the soil location.
 2. A method asclaimed in claim 1, and wherein the soil pest or pathogen includes afungi which produces a pathogenesis, and wherein the step of providingthe high voltage electricity having the predetermined capacitancecomprises generating a source of high voltage DC electricity having avoltage range of about 1 kV to about 100 kv; an amperage of about 5 ampsto about 50 kA; a frequency of about 1 Hz to about 1000 Hz; and acapacitance of about 1 uF to about 1000 uF.
 3. A method as claimed inclaim 1, and wherein the step of electrically coupling the source ofhigh voltage electricity having the predetermined capacitance furthercomprises providing a plurality of spaced electrodes having a givenlength dimension, and inserting the plurality of the spaced electrodesinto the soil location to a predetermined depth, and wherein the sourceof high voltage electricity having the predetermined capacitance iselectrically coupled with at least some of the spaced electrodes.
 4. Amethod as claimed in claim 3, and wherein the step of providing theplurality of spaced electrodes further comprises selecting apredetermined spacing of the respective electrodes which facilitates atransmission of the source of high voltage electricity having thepredetermined capacitance across the soil location having the soil pestor pathogen requiring management, and between at least some of theplurality of electrodes, and wherein the transmission of the highvoltage electricity having the predetermined capacitance between atleast some of the electrodes decreases a pathogenesis of the soil pestor pathogen which is to be managed.
 5. A method as claimed in claim 1,and wherein the step of supplying the source of the high voltageelectricity having the predetermined capacitance to the soil inpredetermined pulses further comprises, selecting an application timeduring which the respective pulses are applied of about 0.1 seconds toabout 60 seconds to effect a desired management of the soil pest.
 6. Amethod as claimed in claim 2, and wherein prior to the step of selectingan application time to effect a desired management of the soil pest orpathogen, the method further comprises determining an electricalconductivity of the soil location which has the soil pest or pathogenrequiring management; and selecting a soil pest or pathogen response tobe effected by the application time of the high voltage electricityhaving the predetermined capacitance so as to facilitate the managementof the soil pest or pathogen at the soil location.
 7. A method asclaimed in claim 6, and wherein the soil conductivity of the soillocation lies within a range of about 100 to about 2500 Micro Siemensper cubic centimeter of soil at the soil location.
 8. A method asclaimed in claim 6, and wherein the soil pest or pathogen to be managedcomprises Ascomcetes and Basidioycetes Fungi, and the selected soil pestor pathogen response of the soil pest or pathogen to be managed, andwhich is effected by the pulses of the high voltage electricity havingthe predetermined capacitance comprises a reduction in the pathogenesisof the soil pest.
 9. A method as claimed in claim 1, and wherein thestep of supplying the source of high voltage electricity having thepredetermined capacitance to the soil location, and in predeterminedpulses to effect the management of the soil pest or pathogen at the soillocation further comprises, delivering to the soil location greater thanabout 2 joules of electricity per cubic centimeter of soil at the soillocation so as to facilitate a reduction in an adverse soil pestpathogenesis at the soil location of greater than about 5 percent.
 10. Amethod as claimed in claim 9, and wherein the adverse soil pestpathogenesis at the soil location comprises a root rot; leaf curlingand/or leaf spot of a plant which is planted at the soil location, by anaction of the soil pest or pathogen, and wherein the adverse soil pestpathogenesis decreases a plant vigor; a crop yield; and/or lowers aproduction quality of the plant which is effected by the soil pest orpathogen at the soil location, and where the plant is being grown.
 11. Amethod as claimed in claim 3, and wherein the plurality of spacedelectrodes are located at a distance of about 1 centimeter to about 40centimeters one, from the others, and wherein each of the electrodeshave a length dimension of about 4 centimeters to about 80 centimeters.12. A method as claimed in claim 5, and wherein the step of supplyingthe source of the high voltage electricity having the predeterminedcapacitance to the soil location further comprises providing at leastone high voltage DC solid state electrical switch, and which, whenrendered electrically closed, allows the passage of the source of thehigh voltage electricity having the predetermined capacitance, and ahigh electrical current, to the soil location, and wherein, when theelectrical switch, when rendered electrically open, substantially stopsthe passage of the high voltage electricity having the predeterminedcapacitance, and high electrical current, to the soil location; andwherein the method further comprises providing a multiplicity ofcapacitors which are selectively, electrically coupled with the highvoltage DC solid state electrical switch, and wherein the high voltageDC solid state electrical switch is electrically coupled with at leastone of the capacitors, and wherein the high voltage DC solid stateelectrical switch, when rendered electrically closed, facilitates anelectrical discharge of at least one of the capacitors.
 13. A method asclaimed in claim 12, and wherein the step of providing the source of thehigh voltage electricity having the predetermined capacitance comprisesgenerating a source of electricity; and delivering the source of thegenerated electricity to at least one electrically discharged capacitor,and wherein the discharged capacitor stores the high voltage electricityhaving the predetermined capacitance by way of the action of the highvoltage DC sold state electrical switch when the high voltage DC solidstate electrical switch is rendered electrically open.
 14. A method asclaimed in claim 13, and wherein the multiplicity of capacitors eachhave a discharge rate which is calculated as an elapsed time which isneeded to electrically discharge any previously stored electricity inthe respective capacitors by way of the action of the high voltage DCsolid state electrical switch, and subsequently form a pulse of highvoltage electricity having the predetermined capacitance, and which isdelivered to the soil location, and wherein the method further comprisesforming a pulse of high voltage electricity having a predeterminedcapacitance, by electrically discharging each capacitor at a dischargerate of about 100 microseconds to about 500 millisecond during a timeinterval which is less than about 600 times per second.
 15. A method asclaimed in claim 14, and wherein a surge current is immediatelygenerated upon the rendering of the high voltage DC solid stateelectrical switch electrically closed, and the discharge of a previouslyelectrically charged capacitor, and wherein the methodology furthercomprises a step of generating a surge current of about 5 Amps to about50 kA immediately following the step of rendering the high voltage DCelectrical switch electrically closed.
 16. A method as claimed in claim4, and wherein the method further comprises providing an isolationtransformer which is electrically coupled with both the source of highvoltage electricity having a predetermined capacitance, and with theplurality of spaced electrodes which are inserted into the soil locationhaving the soil pests or pathogens which need to be managed; andoperating the isolation transformer in a manner so as to effect atransmission of the high voltage electricity having the predeterminedcapacitance through the soil location, and between adjacent electrodes,and which impedes at least in part, the dissipation of the high voltageelectricity having the predetermined capacitance into the soil at thesoil location.
 17. A method as claimed in claim 16, and wherein at leastsome of the plurality of spaced electrodes have a different electricalpolarity.
 18. A method for the management of a soil pest or pathogensuch as a fungi, comprising: providing a source of high voltageelectricity; providing a plurality of spaced electrodes each having agiven length dimension, and which are oriented in a predetermined,spaced relationship, one relative to the other, and orienting the spacedelectrodes in electrical discharging relation relative to a soillocation having a soil pest or pathogen such as a fungi, or nematode tobe managed; providing a capacitor and which is electrically coupled withthe source of the high voltage electricity, and storing the source ofthe high voltage electricity in the capacitor so as to form a source ofhigh voltage electricity having a predetermined capacitance; providing ahigh voltage solid state electrical switch which is electrically coupledwith the source of high voltage electricity having the predeterminedcapacitance, and which is stored in the capacitor, and wherein the highvoltage solid state electrical switch is further electrically coupledwith each of the spaced electrodes, and wherein the high voltage solidstate electrical switch can be rendered electrically open so as tofacilitate a storage of the source of high voltage electricity in thecapacitor, and electrically closed so as to facilitate an electricaldischarge of the capacitor and the subsequent delivery of the source ofthe high voltage electricity having the predetermined capacitance to therespective plurality of spaced electrodes; providing an electricalswitch driver which is electrically coupled with the high voltage solidstate electrical switch, and wherein the high voltage solid stateelectrical switch, when actuated, is effective in causing the highvoltage solid state electrical switch to be rendered either electricallyopen, or electrically closed; providing an isolation transformer whichis electrically coupled with both the source of the high voltageelectricity having the predetermined capacitance, and with the pluralityof spaced electrodes which are oriented in electrical dischargingrelation relative to the soil location, and operating the isolationtransformer in a manner so as to effect a transmission of the highvoltage electricity having the predetermined capacitance through thesoil location, and between the adjacent spaced electrodes, and toimpede, at least in part, the dissipation of the high voltageelectricity having the predetermined capacitance into the soil at thesoil location; providing a controller which is coupled in controllingrelation relative to the electrical switch driver, and which iseffective in rendering the high voltage solid state electrical switchelectrically opened and closed; and repeatedly rendering the electricalswitch driver operable to facilitate an electrical opening and closingof the high voltage solid state electrical switch and so forming amultiplicity of pulses of electricity which are delivered to theplurality of electrodes, and which are oriented in electricaldischarging relation relative to the soil location, and wherein theplurality of electrical pulses facilitate a reduction in an adverse soilpest or pathogen pathogenesis or effect at the soil location which isgreater than about 5%.
 19. A method as claimed in claim 18, and whereinthe step of providing a source of high voltage electricity furthercomprises supporting a mobile electric power generating assembly on anearth traversing vehicle for movement across the soil location havingthe soil pest or pathogen requiring management; and generating thesource of the high voltage electricity with the mobile electric powergeneration assembly.
 20. A method as claimed in claim 18, and whereinthe step of providing the plurality of spaced electrodes furthercomprises mounting and operably coupling the plurality of spacedelectrodes on an earth traversing vehicle, and moving the plurality ofelectrodes across the soil location having the soil pest or pathogen tobe managed, and wherein the earth traversing vehicle moves therespective spaced electrodes into, and out of the soil location.
 21. Amethod as claimed in claim 20, and wherein the step of providing theplurality of spaced electrodes comprises providing a plurality ofindividual electrodes having a given length dimension, and positioningthe individual electrodes in a predetermined, spaced array; andinserting the plurality of electrodes having the given length dimensionto a predetermined depth into the soil location having the soil pest orpathogen to be managed.
 22. A method as claimed in claim 21, and whereinthe step of providing the plurality of individual electrodes having thegiven length dimension further comprises causing at least some of theindividual electrodes to have a different electrical polarity.
 23. Amethod as claimed in claim 20, and wherein the step of providing thespaced electrodes further comprises providing a supporting platform onthe earth traversing vehicle; movably coupling the supporting platformon the earth traversing vehicle; positioning the spaced electrodes onthe platform; propelling the earth traversing vehicle across the soillocation, and selectively moving the supporting platform, and which iscarrying the spaced electrodes, along a path of travel so as torepeatedly insert, and then withdraw the electrodes from the soillocation having the soil pest to be managed for a predetermined periodof time so as to facilitate the reduction in the adverse soil pest orpathogen effect at the soil location.
 24. A method as claimed in claim18, and wherein the adverse soil pest or pathogen effect at the soillocation comprises a root rot; leaf curling; and/or leaf spot of a plantwhich is planted at the soil location, by the an action of the soil pestor pathogen, and wherein the adverse soil pest or pathogen effectdecreases a plant vigor; a crop yield; and/or lowers a productionquality of the plant which is effected by the soil pest or pathogen atthe soil location.
 25. A method as claimed in claim 21, and wherein theplurality of spaced electrodes are located at a distance of about 1centimeters to about 40 centimeters, one from the others, and whereineach of the electrodes have a length dimension of about 4 centimeters toabout 80 centimeters.
 26. A method as claimed in claim 18, and whereinthe step of forming the multiplicity of pulses of electricity furthercomprises selecting an application time during which the respectiveelectrical pulses are applied to the soil location, and which lies in arange of about 0.01 second to about 60 seconds to effect a desiredmanagement of the soil pest or pathogen.
 27. A method as claimed inclaim 26, and wherein before the step of forming the multiplicity ofpulses of electricity, the method further comprises determining anelectrical conductivity of the soil location which has the soil pest orpathogen requiring management; and adjusting the application time of therespective electrical pulses to the soil location so as cause thedesired management of the soil pest or pathogen.
 28. A method as claimedin claim 27, and wherein the step of determining the electricalconductivity of the soil comprises orienting a sensor in electricalconductive sensing relation relative to the soil location; and couplingthe sensor in a signal transmitting relationship relative to thecontroller; and wherein the step of providing the controller furthercomprises adjustably controlling the electrical switch driver with thecontroller so as to produce resulting electrical pulses to effect thedesired management of the soil pest at the soil location.
 29. A methodas claimed in claim 28, and further comprising delivering to the soillocation greater than about 0.2 joules of electricity per cubiccentimeter of soil, at the soil location, so as to effect the reductionof the soil pest or pathogen effect of greater than 5%.